Editorial Reviews and
DVD Information about
42 Up
Amazon.com essential video
"Give me the child until he is 7, and I will give you the man" is the Jesuit maxim that was the kicking-off point for the most fascinating sociological record ever put on film. In 1964 the producers of 7 Up interviewed 14 children from varying social backgrounds, and every seven years since then film director Michael Apted (a researcher on the initial program) has checked in with them as they grew up. 42 Up, the 1998 installment, is in many ways the most contemplative and satisfying of the series, even though three of the original group have opted out of this round. On a superficial level it's a study of an inflexible class system and the compromises, shifting values, and changing priorities of the people growing up in it. Apted (who now has seven generations of footage at his disposal) enjoys cutting between youthful dreams and aspirations and adult realities, but what was ironic effect in earlier chapters now takes on a more thoughtful and contemplative perspective. At mid-life the subjects (most of them now husbands, wives, and parents) have a mature perspective and a philosophy rooted in a life lived, while Apted, who has literally grown up with these people, brings a sensitive appreciation to their experiences. Followers of the series will enjoy revisiting some of the more colorful and personable characters and will find a gratifying sense of hope in the turnaround of social dropout Neil, but no previous viewing is necessary to enjoy this portrait. 42 Up finds the remarkable humanity and strength of these ordinary people and their everyday lives, and that's an accomplishment few films can boast. --Sean Axmaker
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Customer Reviews for
42 Up
Great Series no matter what age you start at!
Highly Recommended! Fun to see where life will take you or at least these 7 people every 7 years!42 Up
A series that improves with time
The up series has followed the lives of 14 British individuals in seven year intervals beginning at age 7 (in 1963 or 64). Every seven years, the producer Michael Apted attempts to interview each of the individual children. For various reasons, some of the individuals are unwilling to be interviewed during a particular time (though most are present in each episode). In this segment, "42 Up", Apted interviews ten individuals: Andrew, Bruce, Jackie, Lynn, Neil, Nick, Paul, Suzy, Symon, and Tony.
On the whole, I found the individuals to be thoughtful and wistful. The mood is much different than "35 Up", where I was struck by the loss that many felt as their parents began to pass away (I am in a similar situation). There is more reflection on childhood and lost opportunities. Love for children and spouses is also evident. More than before, the individuals show strength and courage as they face the future.
In the commentary, it appears that Apted is beginning to realize that his previous segments sometimes provided disorted or incomplete views of the individual's lives. For example, in "28 Up", I think he provided some rather cruel clips on three of the individuals's wives. His edits would sometimes introduce condescending judgments. In this segment, it seems that he is allowing the individuals to speak without editorial moralizing or judgment. Though some of the individuals are still defensive, I think most of the interviews are more heartfelt as a result.
I was especially moved by the segments on Susan and Suzy. Both of these women are so honest and sensitive and their reflections are so true that I (the viewer) feels their pain in loss and the pride in their children. I am also appreciating Tony more now than before, when he did not allow any signs of weakness to show. In revealing himself, he is becoming a fuller person.
I think it is useful to see all the other segments before this one. I have become drawn into their lives. Thus, I feel Bruce's happiness and Lynn's hopes more than if I saw this segment before seeing the others. As a professor, I also strongly feel Nick's dilemma between his love for his childhood home and the love for his work that requires him to live elsewhere. I think that many people are involved in this type of situation that creates a loss no matter what he decides. Thus, the more he succeeds the less likely he can ever return home.
Missing are Charles, John, and Peter. This is sad because each of these individuals are articulate and smart. I miss each of them. John is so sharp and often provides strong counterpoint arguments against Apted's sometimes biased questions and views. I admit that John used to bug me quite a bit in his early years, but I now greatly miss his wit and insights. Peter also has strong opinions and I would be very interested in seeing how he dealt with the seemingly deadend career choice that his schooling prepared him for. Charles has now been missing for 21 years. In "14 Up" and "21 Up", he was a very intelligent person who was critical yet fair in his answers to various questions put to him by Apted. I got the impression that he was aware of Apted's agenda, yet tried to be fair instead of defensive in his self-analysis.
Last, I want to say that I feel that the individuals in these films are very fortunate because these videos provide a portrait of themselves that most of us have lost over the years. Though they rightfully acknowledge that these periodic interviews are painful and intrusive, they also memorialize their lives for their families. I personally remember little of my original dreams and hopes; they fade away over time. I wish that I could have had this opportunity every seven years, with the addendum that it would never be shown to the public. It would be something to give to my children when they are old enough to understand.
I rate this film four stars, not five, because I don't think the film lives up to its potential. That being said, I think that all in my generation could appreciate the candor that these individuals use in their confessions and their courage in revealing themselves to us.42 Up
Phenomenal
This is an excellent movie. How I wish I knew all the people interviwed in it. They are all such intriguing people--so human, flawed and yet wonderful.
Neil and Bruce, you were so luminous as children and now still so idealistic--you give us all hope for humanity. Tony, Nick and all the rest--best wishes to you all.42 Up
Amazing Study of Development and How People Change Over Time
I love the Up Series. I think everyone should watch it as it is a fascinating study of human development. Although their personality is somewhat predicted at a young age, we also learn how drive, emotional barriers and other challenges interact to influence the person they end up becoming.
I so appreciate the contributions of these fascinating people: Tony, Bruce, Suzi, Nick, Peter, Paul, John, Andrew, Charles, Neil, Jackie, Lynn, Sue & Simon. Thank you for sharing your lives with us! I hope that those who have dropped up come back for 49 Up, especialy Charles. As a child, I found Charles to be quite open minded and creative and thought it was completely fitting that he became a producer! Given his profession it is surprising that he has been unwilling to participate. I can't wait to watch 42 Up followed by 49 Up!!42 Up
Before purchasing 42 UP, consider getting the whole series
The whole series up to this film is finally available on DVD and is an awesome experience, much richer than this single film, as amazing as this single film is. I have discussed the reasons why one might prefer to get the entire series on DVD over on the Amazon page for the set.42 Up
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