While we consider the past year, a selection of remarkable feature-length stories stands out. Such narratives probe multifaceted topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the story of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a major player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life could turn around. I was tragically mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
The finest narratives
