We’ve had one period romance about paleontology (Ammonite) that might be an Oscar contender. So how about another that deals with archaeology? Netflix might have an award-winning drama on their hands with The Dig, which stars Carey Mulligan, Ralph Fiennes, and Lily James in a story steeped in romance, mystery, and ghosts of the past.
The Dig is based on the true story of Edith Pretty, a widow who hired self-taught archaeologist Basil Brown to excavate some curious burial mounds on her property, thinking they contained untold riches. Her hunch proved to be right, leading to the discovery of the Sutton Hoo ship burial and other prominent artifacts. Lily James plays archaeologist Peggy Piggott, one of the professionals who came aboard once the discovery’s worth was assessed.
Also in the cast are Johnny Flynn, Ben Chaplin, Ken Stott, Archie Barnes, and Monica Dolan. Moira Buffini (Byzantium) wrote the script, with Simon Stone (The Daughter) behind the camera.
Select theaters will get The Dig on January 15th 2021, while it will hit Netflix on January 29th.
SYNOPSIS: As WWII looms, a wealthy widow hires an amateur archaeologist to excavate the burial mounds on her estate. When they make a historic discovery, the echoes of Britain’s past resonate in the face of its uncertain future.
