Upon look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding feature-length pieces stands out. Such pieces delve into multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This prompts a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The best stories
