63 Up

Another interesting entry in this fabulous series. But this one suffers even more than others from being more than half recap, which leaves very little time left to in-depth interviews of their lives now.

too much lookback, both in the archival footage and the interview themes included. One of the best aspects of the series has always been the speculation wrt what's to come. This time there's not much to look forward to except retirement/death. Neil is always the highlight, but for me this time Nick's segment was probably the most poignant.

Another extraordinary chapter in this awesome series is, inevitably, fixed on mortality; death has sadly struck one subject and preparations are ready for another one. It's the now considerable wealth of archival footage that makes this involving, as we (and Apted's subjects) are forced to reflect on what a strange and unique experience these films have been, as signposts to human existence and mores in the 20th century. A contemplative final chapter to go out on (if this is indeed the last).

The high proportion of flashbacks prevent this from breaking into the upper ranks of the series - the actual 63 portion would be up there with 21/28, as the "middle years" of 35-56 draw to a close and the awareness of mortality descends on the participants (1 having died in 2013, another diagnosed with cancer, and Apted himself dying in 2021). John manages a redemption arc, and I have to eat my words in 35 Up of disparaging his charity efforts. Interesting to see if there will be a final 70 Up.

Neil Hughes: I wake up every day and I don't know what's going to happen. 

As always, it's kind of nice to catch up with the lives of the people we have come to know quite well, but this is 75% recap, and truth be told it's probably the most non-essential entry in the series.