Peter Roberts, 16 mins, 1969

A Film (1969) is a short animation by Peter Roberts that explores themes of alienation and isolation against the backdrop of desolate industrial landscapes. Made before Roberts joined Amber in 1971, the film was brought into the collective’s body of work after founder member Murray Martin recognised a shared sensibility in its visual and emotional tone.

The story follows a man who moves through a stark, unfamiliar world, adopting a series of disguises in a futile attempt to connect with his surroundings. Its experimental use of still imagery paved the way for Amber’s later photo films, including Byker, Keeping Time, and The Writing in the Sand, helping to shape a visual language that would become central to the Amber Films approach.