As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length pieces emerges. Such narratives explore intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the nineties with scathing satires on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. It poses a key question: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the story of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, families rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has become a key actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut 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.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
