While we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. These narratives explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. It poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only path out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical end – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of what happened remains somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best stories
