Upon consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. Such narratives delve into intricate subjects from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, families depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering 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 reliable treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely rich country has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the key to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
