While we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length pieces shines. Such pieces probe multifaceted themes including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of books. This raises a key question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could possess the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
