While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. These narratives probe multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is she really changed, and what are the director's own methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a major force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life could improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial 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 may hold the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
