Movie Reviews

‘The Dig’ Review – Could’ve Dug Deeper

Synopsis:

An excavator and his team discover a wooden ship from the Dark Ages while digging up a burial ground on a woman’s estate.

Unfortunately, in our world, especially in the past, those who hold the wealth and power control the historical narrative. Oftentimes it results in erased contributions made by tons of people who are left out of the history books. Those with power and influence then take and/or reassign credit for work, inventions, groundbreaking discoveries, and movements, therefore, augmenting history to suit themselves. If credit is not taken, blame, defamatory remarks, and lies are often placed to discredit the originator. Luckily we live in a time now where corrections are being made and credit is given to those who truly deserve it. Sadly, most are no longer with us to receive their roses. However, their names will now live on forever, cemented in history as they should’ve been in the first place.

Based on a book of the same name, The Dig is a biographical drama about one of the greatest discoveries in the United Kingdom’s history. The film is attentive, serious, and handled with care. With its great cast, it’s easy to be drawn in, however, it doesn’t have broad appeal. I believe history buffs are the audience that will enjoy the film the most. While I found the subject matter interesting, the other aspects of the story feel rather superficial. What makes the film enjoyable for me is the curiosity and details of how this moment in history actually unfolded and the chemistry between Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes. This is not a film that you can pick at random and find yourself deeply enthralled by. Moreover, there is not an abundance of fervor nor are there many attention-grabbing moments. Nevertheless, the movie can and will be enjoyed by those who are genuinely interested. It’s somber tone and attention to detail provide a genuine delivery leaving nothing to question about what took place. It is well written, the cinematography is calming, and the cast is great; the story just isn’t overly entertaining. There are some moments where the film could’ve dug deeper into a few relationships which would’ve made for some interesting drama, but the film plays it modestly and focuses on its topic. I found The Dig to be initially intriguing but overall, it falls a little flat. Not for nothing, the information I gained is cool. Its rewatchability is low.

Plot & Pace

Pondering over the huge mounds of earth on her estate, widow, Edith Pretty is determined to uncover what may lie beneath. Once she contacts revered archaeologist, Basil Brown it’s not long before excavating begins. As news spreads about a potential history-altering discovery, large museums attempt to gain control of the excavation as well as its credit. Persistent that it’s her land, Edith insists that Basil must be a part of it. After spending an abundance of time together, a bond grows between not only Mr. Brown and Edith but with her son as well. The bond potentially complicates the process as well as their personal lives. Things get even more interesting once Basil’s assistance arrives and love is in the air.

The film begins rather quickly but eventually feels rather sluggish.

Characters & Chemistry

While the film showcases two great talents in Carey Mulligan who plays Edith Pretty and Ralph Fiennes who plays Basil Brown, it’s Lily James and Johnny Flynn who standout to me. Playing Peggy Preston and Rory Lomax, respectively, the spark between the two is palpable. It’s unfortunate that we are only given a tiny morsel of their storyline. The chemistry of cast throughout the film is very strong and intimate.

The Dig released in select theaters on January 15th and begins streaming on Netflix on January 29th. Stay safe and Enjoy.