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Keith and his business partner, Alistair, have
decided to take their wives, June and Emma, on a cabin-cruiser holiday up
the River Orb to Armageddon Bridge. Keith and June’s relationship is shown
to be flawed from the outset whilst Alistair and Emma are in a rut, his
self-respect diminished and as a consequence hers too. It is obvious they
still have affection and feelings for each other.
The boat sets off from Hadforth Lock, although Keith has neglected to inform
Alistair that he has arranged for his secretary, Mrs Hatfield, to meet him
each day to update him on the business – particularly, though, with regard
to looming union problems. Alistair, although believed to be the best man to
deal with these problems, is non-committal and Keith decides to return and
confront the problems himself. Alistair, left in charge of the boat,
promptly grounds it. Fortunately, the passing Vince offers help and is soon
piloting the boat to the next lock. June, besotted with Vince, invites him
for a drink and he begins to take control of the boat with incredible
efficiency. Everyone is soon subjugated to his will, either willingly like
June or unwillingly like Alistair and Emma.
Keith returns. He is unhappy with Vince being aboard but with an all-out
strike at the factory looking likely, he leaves again. Vince, meanwhile,
reappears with a friend, Fleur, in tow having brought drinks for a party.
Keith returns during the party and demands the newcomers leave.
Democratically deposed as Captain by Vince, he again departs. Vince
subsequently maroons Alistair on an island before indulging in an orgiastic
evening with June. During this, Emma attempts to smuggle food – a tin of
beans – to her husband. This results in Vince declaring Emma should walk the
plank. Alistair, at last, shakes off his indifference and lack of confidence
and attempts to rescue Emma. He confronts Vince who, in the ensuing fight,
almost beats him senseless. When all hope seems lost, Alistair finds the tin
of beans in the river and uses it to knock out Vince. Fleur and June go to
Vince’s aid as Emma and Alistair pilot the boat away, heading for Armageddon
Bridge. They successfully pass underneath it and find themselves faced with
peace and tranquillity. Their love and respect for each other restored, they
strip off and dive into the water to an island – although both know they
will have to return and face reality at some point.
Copyright: Simon Murgatroyd 2006 |
