After six decades (of filming), the seminal series bows out with 70 Up
21 days ago
- The groundbreaking ITV documentary series 'Seven Up,' which followed participants every seven years since 1964, is concluding with its final installment, '70 Up.'
- New director Asif Kapadia, who replaced the late Michael Apted, brings a fresh perspective, focusing on authenticity and challenging unconscious bias in documentary filmmaking.
- Participant Neil Hughes discusses his struggles with depression and the feeling that the series did not show the 'real me,' while also appreciating the chance to reconnect with others.
- The series has been a pioneering social experiment, influencing reality TV and highlighting the impact of class, environment, and mental health on life outcomes.
- Producers emphasize duty of care, with participants like Symon Basterfield noting that the program made his story feel special simply by being seen.
- Future plans include creating individual hour-long films about each participant, funded by universities or media, to tell their personal stories more fully.