When a cross-section of seven-year-olds were interviewed for 7 Up in 1964 it was immediately evident that their social backgrounds influenced their attitudes towards life. While the upper class children were confident and self-assured, those from middle and working class backgrounds were resigned to a challenging life of hard work. This premise was put to the test every seven years when the same group were interviewed about the progression of their lives. 49 years in the making, the changes that occurred to the original 14 make for fascinating television and are in many ways the stories of all our lives. From success and disappointment, marriage and childbirth, to poverty and illness, nearly every facet of life has been captured on film. Now, at the age of 56, the group are once more brought together and, with the benefit of hindsight, assess whether their lives have been ruled by circumstance or self-determination.
Direction
Apted's 49-year commitment redefines what documentary can achieve.
Production
Seamless archival weaving—seven decades of film stock, one coherent life.
Director
Michael Apted
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Michael Apted started as a researcher on the original 7 Up and directed every installment until his death in 2021.
The series inspired the 'Up' format globally—there are now versions in at least 20 countries, all tracking lives across decades.
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