While we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length stories shines. These pieces explore multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting satires on power. Although several of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It poses a key question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking scale of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest times, people turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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