As we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding feature-length stories emerges. These accounts delve into multifaceted topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of copies. This raises a key query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture 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 reliable medical remedy – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
