Imagine being able to view your life from age 7, every seven years to age 49. Through the power of simple documentary filmmaking, this "metaphysical" look on life is what the epic series from Michael Apted allows every viewer to experience in his "Up series" films. Starting with 7 Up, which was filmed in 1964, the series of 7 films profiles a number of British children as they grow through adulthood.
The amazing thing about this series is that one can see the seasons of life so distinctly through these diverse set of real people... the raw innocence of childhood, traumatic adolescence, the seeking of place and meaning from through to age 35 and the seasoning, wisdom and serenity that starts to settle in through one's 40's. Of course, this is my 2 minute take on this awesome series. This is "reality" filmmaking that is really real, and not composed.
Watching the series takes time, and can't be rushed. The first two films are shorter (about 30-45 min) but the remaining 5 are about 2 hrs each. Sometimes it's hard to understand the thick East End accents (I wish there were English subtitles on the DVDs!) You can also tell how film technology (and quality) evolves as the series films demonstrate.
I'd recommend that anyone wishing to watch the series start from the beginning and view them all in series. I found that I was seeing aspects of myself in these people, and anxiously awaiting viewing the next film to see the direction people's lives would turn.
The last film (49 Up) is my absolute favorite, but only because 56 up has not yet come out.
For any documentary lover, this series is a must see.
Cheers.