As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable feature-length stories shines. These accounts probe complex themes including political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best stories
