Watch 28 Up

28 Up is a documentary television series that aired on ITV in the United Kingdom in 1984. It is the third installment in the Up series, which began in 1964 with Seven Up! and was followed by 14 Up in 1970. The series features interviews with a group of individuals who were seven years old in the first film and have been followed by the cameras ever since. This third installment catches up with the participants at the age of twenty-eight.

The show follows the lives of fourteen individuals from various parts of England, all born in 1956. Each of them is from a different socio-economic background and has had their lives shaped in different ways by their family and upbringing. Some of them have had to navigate difficult circumstances, while others have had a relatively stable and privileged upbringing. The film focuses on their personal stories and experiences, including their education, career aspirations, relationships, and family life.

Among the participants in 28 Up are Bruce Balden, Jacqueline Bassett, and Symon Basterfield. Bruce is featured prominently in the documentary, discussing everything from his work as a teacher to his political beliefs. He talks about his disillusionment with the political system and the influence that poverty has had on his life. Jacqueline, on the other hand, is pursuing a career in law and is also facing pressure to find a partner and settle down. Symon is an aspiring jockey who is struggling to make a career out of his passion for horse racing.

One of the most compelling aspects of 28 Up is the way it explores the lives of individuals who are often overlooked or marginalized by society. Through their stories, the series sheds light on the realities of life in England in the 1980s, including the impact of poverty, class, and social inequality. It also shows how the hopes and aspirations of individuals can be shaped by their upbringing, and how these aspirations can change as they grow older and face new challenges.

Despite being over 30 years old, 28 Up remains a relevant and thought-provoking series that raises important questions about the nature of human development and the ways in which society shapes our lives. Each installment of the Up series is a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking to offer viewers a rare glimpse into the lives of ordinary people, and 28 Up is no exception. The series is a reminder that, no matter how different our experiences may be, we all share a common humanity and a desire to find our place in the world.

In conclusion, 28 Up is a fascinating and insightful documentary series that offers a rare and intimate look into the lives of fourteen individuals as they navigate the challenges of adulthood in 1980s England. Featuring a diverse cast of characters and a compelling narrative arc, the series is a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking and a timeless exploration of the human condition.