As we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length pieces emerges. Such narratives explore intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest narratives
