About The Dig

Explore

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music, Soundtrack

About

"The Dig" (2021) is a historical drama film based on the 2007 novel of the same name by John Preston. The movie is directed by Simon Stone and features a talented cast that includes Carey Mulligan, Ralph Fiennes, Lily James, and Johnny Flynn. Set in 1939, the film tells the story of the excavation of Sutton Hoo, an archaeological site in Suffolk, England, where significant Anglo-Saxon treasures were discovered.

The plot follows Edith Pretty (Carey Mulligan) as she hires amateur archaeologist Basil Brown (Ralph Fiennes) to excavate the mounds on her estate. As they unearth ancient treasures, tensions rise as professional archaeologists become involved, and personal dramas unfold amidst the backdrop of looming war and social change.

Making / Production

"The Dig" was filmed on location in England, capturing the beautiful landscapes and historical sites that play a crucial role in the story. The production team paid special attention to detail to accurately recreate the atmosphere of wartime Britain and the excitement of the archaeological discoveries.

Actors

• Carey Mulligan as Edith Pretty - Mulligan brings depth and emotion to the role of the affluent widow who initiates the excavation at Sutton Hoo.
• Ralph Fiennes as Basil Brown - Fiennes delivers a nuanced performance as the self-taught archaeologist who leads the dig with expertise and dedication.
• Lily James as Peggy Piggott - James portrays an archaeologist who becomes involved in the excavation and develops a complex relationship with another character.
• Johnny Flynn as Rory Lomax - Flynn plays the role of Peggy's husband, who is caught up in his artistic pursuits while the digging unfolds.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The real-life excavation at Sutton Hoo in 1939 was a significant archaeological discovery that shed light on the Anglo-Saxon period in England.
• Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes' on-screen chemistry was praised by critics, adding depth to the emotional core of the film.
• The sets and costumes in "The Dig" were meticulously designed to reflect the historical accuracy of the time period, enhancing the overall authenticity of the film.

Awards

"The Dig" received critical acclaim for its performances, cinematography, and storytelling. While it may not have won major awards, it was recognized for its artistic achievements.

Quotes

• "Sometimes it's hard to know what you're fighting for." - Edith Pretty
• "Dirt makes you patient. You have to be patient to find things that matter." - Basil Brown

Music, Soundtrack

The film's soundtrack features a moving score composed by Stefan Gregory, enhancing the emotional depth of the characters and the beautiful English countryside setting.