The Dig

Dear Mark,

The presence of the past in the present not only teaches us where we come from, but also informs the way we live today. Stunningly shot with almost sepia colouring and vast horizons, 'The Dig' poetically chronicles the famous archaeological dig at Sutton Hoo in 1939 which un-earthed remarkable Anglo-Saxon treasures which now reside in the British Museum as relics of historical significance. The film follows archaeology hobbyist Basil Brown (Ralph Fiennes) and wealthy landowner Edith Pretty (Carey Mulligan) as they undertake a passion project to reveal the historical journey beneath their feet, and subsequently, instil an enthusiasm in the future generation to pursue science, development and wonder. The intelligent mutual respect between Basil and Edith is fruitful, and succeeds to defy the efforts of chancers from the local authorities to commandeer the operation.

The foreboding tragedy of war haunts the film, occasionally piercing the narrative with early indications of what was to come. For today's audience, we can see that many of the men characterised in this very film would themselves be condemned to the realm of the relics as they gave their lives during wartime efforts. Poignant and elegant, 'The Dig' is a quiet masterpiece.