Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. These accounts explore complex themes from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is she really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
