Dir. Meghan Shea
In Life
ABOUT
What if aging wasn’t about slowing down—but expanding?
In Life is a powerful documentary that challenges the way we see aging, following three extraordinary artists who continue to create, innovate, and thrive in their later years. Through the stories of writer Betsy Cox, painter Goh Beng Kwan, and pianist Leanne Rees, the film explores how imagination, resilience, and passion fuel lifelong creativity.
As the world’s aging population grows, so does the urgency to reshape our beliefs about what it means to grow older. Research shows that positive perceptions of aging can extend life expectancy by 7.5 years, yet 82% of adults experience ageism daily. Inspired by the groundbreaking work of Yale researcher Becca Levy, In Life offers a bold, new vision—one where aging is not a decline, but a continuation of artistry, expression, and purpose.
Told through intimate video portraits, the film moves fluidly between past and present, revealing the grit, style, and creative drive that propel these artists forward. Their stories remind us that aging isn’t an ending—it’s another beginning.
Directed by Meghan Shea and produced by Persistent Productions, In Life is a celebration of artistry, perseverance, and the limitless possibilities of life at every age.
MORE INFORMATION
Directors Statement
'In Life' consists of three video portraits of artists creating original work in their later years. Featuring writer Betsy Cox, painter Goh Beng Kwan, and pianist Leanne Rees, the film captures their artistic vantage points and offers perspectives into their processes for their most recent works.
We were inspired by Becca Levy’s research at Yale on positive age beliefs. Each artist is set within their own short film, which moves fluidly between their biographies and their present day, providing insight into the style, grit, and personas that continue to produce high-level creative work in their 80s and 90s,” said Meghan Shea of Persistent Productions. “The films show us that aging can be fuel for artistic production and hitting one’s stride, creatively speaking. We hope that viewers will discover mentors, guides, and ideas that inspire perseverance.” - Director Meghan Shea
Screening Locations
To date the In Life film has had three private screenings in three different locations.
1. Shalin Liu, Rockport, MA
2. Darien Library, Darien, CT
3. New Mexico Museum of Art, Santa Fe, NM
Press and Quotes
“A powerful documentary celebrating individuals who are thriving in their later years through creativity and a positive mindset about aging.”
– For All Ages Foundation
"Each story was fantastic, authentic and personal."
- Audience Response
"Inspiring for all ages"
- Audience Response
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