As we look back on the past year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length stories emerges. Such narratives delve into multifaceted subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on power. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective medical end – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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