Watch The Globalisation Tapes

The Globalisation Tapes is a documentary film released in 2003, directed by Christine Cynn and Michael Watts. This movie portrays the true-life stories of Indonesian workers and their struggles against globalisation. The story of the film unfolds in the Sumatran village of Punge, where filmmakers Christine Cynn and Michael Watts interview local villagers and factory workers about their lives and working conditions.

The documentary is divided into five parts, each one focusing on a different aspect of globalisation. The first part, titled '100% Foreign Capital', examines the impact of foreign investment on Indonesia's economy. The second part, called 'Flexible Employment', highlights the rise of precarious work and the exploitation of workers by multinational corporations. The third part, 'Gender and Family', explores the challenges faced by working mothers and their families.

The fourth part of the film, titled 'Unions and the State', focuses on labour rights and the government's role in supporting workers. It depicts the Indonesian government's opposition to labour unions and their attempts to weaken the labour movement. This part is particularly significant as it presents a very nuanced view of the state and labour relations that often fall outside of the usual "good versus evil" narrative.

Finally, the last part of the film, entitled 'National Heroes?', examines the role of nationalistic rhetoric in the workers' struggle against globalisation. This section highlights the tension between nationalism and neoliberalism, and how this can be a divisive issue in the labour movement.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is the realism of the interviews. The workers speak candidly about their experiences, their hopes, and their fears. They describe grueling working hours, low wages, and the fear they have of losing their jobs if they join a union. However, they also express a sense of solidarity, and this solidarity is what gives them strength in the face of exploitation.

The documentary also features some beautifully shot footage. The directors capture the lush landscapes and the everyday lives of the villagers. Moreover, the editing of the documentary is seamless, and the film flows beautifully between interviews, footage of the workers' lives, and historical context.

One of the key themes of the documentary is the role of Western countries in exacerbating the problems faced by Indonesia's working class. It highlights the tension between the global economy and national autonomy, which leaves many developing countries in a precarious position. While globalisation may have benefited some, as the film shows, it has also come at a price for many of the world's most vulnerable workers.

Overall, The Globalisation Tapes is a thought-provoking and well-made documentary. It highlights the struggles of the working class in developing countries, and how globalisation has exacerbated these struggles. The film is essential for anyone who wants to understand the human impact of globalisation and the challenges faced by workers around the world.