As we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length pieces stands out. These pieces probe intricate themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective medical end – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the very highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of the events is still partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
