As we consider the past year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length pieces stands out. Such narratives delve into complex subjects ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective treatment remedy – until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the very highest levels of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a major actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of what happened remains partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation might turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best journalism