As we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional feature-length pieces emerges. Such narratives delve into intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key question: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the story of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
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?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the events is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast 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 Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
