As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding feature-length pieces stands out. Such pieces explore multifaceted subjects ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is she genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, families rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
