While we look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length pieces emerges. Such narratives probe complex topics from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich country has risen as a key player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the events is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best narratives
