As we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. These narratives delve into intricate themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This prompts a key query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of prison was to join the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she really changed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a key player on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact story of the events is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life could change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
