DVD Review: 42 Up (A)

42 Up (1999)
Directed by Michael Apted
MPAA: PG
Grade: A

42 Up is the most recent installation in Michael Apted's ongoing series that follows the lives of 14 British children through adulthood. Begun in 1964 when his subjects were all age seven, Apted has continued to document their lives meeting up with them again every 7 years. Those who have not seen any of the previous installments need not worry as Apted skillfully blends clips and sound bites from previous interviews to create a tender and intricate portrait of each individual's life.

Symon, a biracial factory worker, talks about growing up between two worlds. Suzy, an upper-middleclass housewife speaks candidly about her parents divorce, her painful adolescence and what it means to be a parent. Andrew, an upperclass barrister, reflects on his participation in the series and remarks that he would not want his children taking part in such a documentary.

In the film, as in life, some stories are more interesting than others. Tony, a lower-middleclass cab driver from the East End of London, was raised grooming horses and once had dreams of becoming a successful jockey. Talkative and funny, Tony relates many incidents in his life that others might find too personal to share. Recently he and his family moved to the suburbs and Tony laments that his parents, both dead, are not there to see that he "made it". Perhaps the most interesting story is that of Neil. We see him grow from a lively and happy youngster into a nervous and diffident adult. Throughout his twenties and thirties Neil wandered the countryside virtually cut off from human companionship. At 42, Neil has been able to transform his life. Now a local councilman, Neil talks about the depression that kept him homeless for years.

There are several recurring themes in 42 Up including the importance of family and the responsibilities of adulthood. Feelings of regret and loss feature prominently in many of the interveiws as Apted's subjects, now middle aged, take stock of their lives. But we also witness moments of great pride and acheivement. There is a strong sense of the passage of time and in a very real way we get to watch these people grow up.

What I find truly profound about this film is its simplicity. Apted reminds us that the ordinary is beautiful and sad and compelling. The viewer is prompted to examine his or her own life and in this way we become part of the movie. 42 Up is a quiet film, and Apted will more likely be remembered for his "Hollywood" movies such as The World is Not Enough or Nell. However, this film is much more unique and special and with it Apted has made a contribution far greater than most directors.

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