As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length pieces stands out. Such narratives explore multifaceted topics from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the events remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
