28 Up

28 Up is an incredible and daring social documentary made by ITV, that first aired in 1986 and was directed by the pioneering director Michael Apted. The show is the fifth instalment in the innovative 'Up Series', which began in 1964 with '7 Up'. This series is known for its unique concept, whereby it follows the lives of fourteen British individuals, documenting their hopes, dreams, joys, and tribulations every seven years.

The series initially started as a social experiment to explore the influence of socio-economic background on the future prospects and happiness of seven years old children. The children were from varied backgrounds, selected from both ends of the social spectrum in 1960s Britain, from the well-to-do upper class to children from the East End of London. The idea underpinning the series derives from the Jesuit maxim "Give me a child until he is seven and I will show you the man".

28 Up, adhering to this concept, returned to these individuals as they reached the age of 28. The show provides a fascinating and often poignant insight into the diverging and converging paths of their lives, painting an intimate portrait of British life and the impact of social class, as well as offering reflections on the idiosyncratic nature of life itself.

Under Apted's conscientious direction, this documentary touches on various aspects of human life - dreams, disappointments, relationships, profession, and the persistent or evolving ideas of joy, success, and happiness. As viewers, we are offered a rare glimpse of the totality of their lives, from the conceits and insecurities of youth to the sometimes harsh realities of adulthood.

The participants' honesty and openness in answering probing questions about their personal life, relationships, ideals, and disappointments make the show captivating for viewers. The unique format of 28 Up, which switches between past and present interviews, showing the evolution of the person over time, provides a powerful perspective on the relentless passage of time and the myriad ways it shapes individuals.

One of the remarkable things about 28 Up, and indeed the entire Up Series, is its ability to humanize the concept of "coming of age" across the different strata of society. The series illuminates the profound ways in which societal structures and socio-economic background can mould lives, yet also showcases the individual strength and resilience in face of these structures.

Perhaps what is most engaging about 28 Up is the opportunity to reflect on one’s own life while watching it. The diverse stories and individual experiences encourage the viewer to ponder on their own life path, their changing dreams and ambitions as they age, and the societal forces that have shaped their own lives. It brings to the forefront the commonality of human experiences — dreams we chase, hurdles we face, relationships we make and break, and how we perceive happiness or success.

A testament to its impact and intrigue, 28 Up won acclaim from critics and audience alike and has been hailed as a significant contribution to British television. Its cultural relevance and timeless appeal lie in its exploration of universal themes that cross geographical and societal boundaries.

Whether you are new to the Up Series or a long-time viewer, 28 Up is compelling viewing, offering an unrivalled snapshot of British society in the mid '80s and profound reflection on the human condition.

28 Up is not just a documentary - it is a remarkable study of human life, society and time. It is a show that promises to leave you pondering long after the end credits have rolled, regardless of whether you are British or not, or whether you were alive in the '80s or not, since the themes of the series are universally human. Its extraordinary vision and execution gives 28 Up a unique position in the panorama of television history and makes it an absolute must-see.