Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding feature-length stories stands out. These narratives probe multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with biting satires on power. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation might improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
