UCSB Arts and Lectures brought director Michael Apted to screen and discuss his movie 56 Up.
A diverse group of British 7-year-olds were interviewed about their lives and dreams for a TV documentary in 1964.Since then, renowned director Michael Apted has been back to talk with them every seven years.
I first learned of this documentary at the 28 Up installment. I was 21 at the time so I was drawn to it on many levels. I could follow it on the same 7 year cycle as they were on. I could see where they had been for the previous 7 years and what I might experience in the next 7 years. I like anniversary markings and life reflection. The topic is fascinating on a social psychology level. Although not scientific, this is an amazing longitudinal study on life.
After the screening, Apted took questions from the audience and shared his own observations, his growth with each successive installation, and his failures along the way.
I enjoy the voyeuristic glimpse into this British group and will continue to peek in at the scheduled time.