Going into this film, I didn’t know anything about Basil Brown (played by Ralph Fiennes), Edith Pretty (Carey Mulligan’s role), or Peggy Piggott (Lily James portrays her) and their significance. As someone with a background in engineering and an interest in science, I usually enjoy films centered on true accounts of scientific breakthroughs, technological progress, or significant historical happenings. So, even though the initial concept didn't immediately grab me, director Simon Stone managed to make it quite engaging. Mike Eley’s cinematography is exceptional; he delivers some of the most beautiful visuals of the year, making "The Dig" a pleasure to watch. The story mainly revolves around the excavation and the discovery of an unexpectedly ancient Anglo-Saxon ship, which proved more fascinating than I thought possible. Still, the romantic storyline involving Peggy Piggott felt awkward and uninspired given what the film is about. It significantly disrupts the rhythm, slowing down what would otherwise be a nicely balanced movie. Moira Buffini’s already strong script benefits even further from the wonderful performances of the actors. Fiennes and Mulligan have a touching connection that works well for their characters. Lily James also showcases her considerable acting abilities once more. I suggest it to anyone curious about this true story or who appreciates films in this particular category. Rating: B

Source on TMDB