As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories shines. Such narratives probe complex subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with scathing critiques on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a key query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the very highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation could change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
