5. The Up Series (1964-2012)
Ah, growing up. Not until you have real responsibilities do you start to realize just how crappy it is. Sure, little kids arent taken seriously and the younger they are the more they behave like a drunkard, but they have it great. Naps, snacks, playgrounds, toys and cartoons; if it were socially acceptable Im sure that we would all happily revert to this stage. Alas, we must grow. The interesting part of growing up is just how we do it. Starting in 1964, fourteen seven-year-olds were chosen to take part in
Seven Up. The British children were chosen for their multitude of socioeconomic backgrounds. Theorizing in 1964 that the shop steward and the executive of the year 2000 are now seven years old, the film looks to determine whether or not social class is a predetermination of a persons future by reexamining the fourteen participants lives every seven years. I know what youre thinking. One entry that includes eight documentaries is totally cheating. Well no its not because its my list and you can just shut up. These films succeed best because of each other. You could potentially view each film on its own and it will work just fine. Enough clips are included to give all of the interviews context, but doing this deprives you of the fully satisfying experience of the series. In watching the films, you literally are watching these children grow before your eyes. The films concept to examine how social class potentially dictates our course in life is complex and interesting in its own right, but the emotional investment that is developed in watching these people grow is what sets these films apart. You will be shocked in the turns that some lives take and delighted with others. The series hits a bit of a zenith in
28 Up with Neils story especially punching you in the gut.
The Up Series accomplishes feats that only documentary film can and it shows no signs of losing steam;
56 Up came out just this past year.