browseTyne Lives (1980)
60 mins, 16mm
Colour/optical
Documentary
A not-entirely-successful attempt at putting a number of Amber’s projects together in the absence of a budget, the film does include some great footage of the river. It is structured around three people talking to camera about their experiences and commitments, real and fictionalised. Jim Murray, a union activist explains why, in spite of recognised contradictions, he retains his belief in, and support for union strength. Betty Hepple (also appearing in Amber’s films as Amber Styles) is a housewife, describing the dissatisfactions and frustrations of her struggle to get by. Arthur, a retired fish quay worker, talks about his work experiences and indicates his belief in working people’s struggle for a better deal.
The interviews are linked by a visual journey along the River Tyne, as a boat carries ash from a power station to the sea. The monuments of industrial Tyneside are juxtaposed with the campaign to save jobs in the factories that built them; a television show offers tawdry prizes as a family argue about money.
AMBER FILMS Made with financial assistance from Northern Arts.