The Dig 2021
Directed by
Simon Stone
Made by
Netflix
Plot Summary
In the year 1939, the story unfolds as Suffolk landowner Edith Pretty hires local self-taught archaeologist and excavator Basil Brown to explore the large burial mounds at her serene estate in Sutton Hoo. Initially, she proposes a payment equivalent to the minimal agricultural wage, similar to what he earned from the Ipswich Museum. However, Brown finds this offer insufficient and negotiates a better deal of £2 a week, which she gladly agrees to.
Despite attempts by his former employers to lure him to excavate a Roman villa they believe to be more significant, Brown holds steadfast, proposing that the mounds might, in fact, date back to the Anglo-Saxon period rather than the more recognized Viking era. As he undertakes his excavation with a few estate assistants, he carefully uncovers the most promising of the mounds. There’s a harrowing moment when a trench unexpectedly collapses on him, but he is thankfully rescued just in time.
As the narrative progresses, Brown spends more time with Edith, a widow facing her own challenges, and her spirited young son, Robert Pretty. While neglecting letters from his own wife, May, he becomes deeply involved in their lives. Edith faces her own health issues, receiving stern advice from her doctor to minimize stress.
One of the pivotal moments occurs when Brown discovers iron rivets from a ship, hinting that the burial site may belong to someone of significant status, potentially a king. Local archaeologist James Reid Moir attempts to join the excavation but is turned away. Instead, Edith brings her cousin Rory Lomax on board to assist. News of their discoveries spreads rapidly, attracting the attention of Cambridge archaeologist Charles Phillips, who declares the site of national importance and takes control of the dig by order of the Office of Works.
As the threat of war looms, Philips enlarges the team, incorporating Peggy Piggott, who goes on to unveil the first distinctly Anglo-Saxon artifact. Although Brown initially retains a position to maintain order at the site, Edith insists on his return to excavating. Ultimately, he unearths a Merovingian Tremissis, a small but significant gold coin from Late Antiquity, leading Philips to officially classify the location as one of considerable historical value.
Philips expresses the desire to send the discovered items to the British Museum, but Edith, concerned over potential damage from air raids in London, declares her ownership rights. An inquest verifies her claim to the ship and its invaluable grave goods; however, as her health deteriorates, her spirit begins to wane.
Meanwhile, Peggy, feeling disregarded by her husband Stuart—who harbors his own secret—embarks on a romance with Rory, but their relationship is cut short as he is soon drafted into the Royal Air Force. In a heartfelt gesture, Edith decides to donate the Sutton Hoo treasures to the British Museum, ensuring that Brown is recognized for his invaluable contributions. Tragically, she passes away in 1942.
Years later, it is revealed in a note that the treasures were hidden in the London Underground during the war and were first displayed—without Basil Brown receiving any recognition—nine long years after Edith’s death. It wasn’t until recently that Brown was rightly acknowledged for his efforts, and his name now graces a permanent place alongside Edith Pretty’s at the British Museum.
Timeline
Edith Pretty Hires Basil Brown
In 1939, Suffolk landowner Edith Pretty hires self-taught archaeologist Basil Brown for an excavation at her estate in Sutton Hoo. The initial payment offered is on par with agricultural wages, but after negotiation, they settle on £2 a week, highlighting Brown's expertise.
Basil Brown's Commitment to Sutton Hoo
Despite being tempted by his former employers to work on a Roman villa, Brown remains focused on the burial mounds at Sutton Hoo. He proposes that these mounds date back to the Anglo-Saxon period, a stance that sets the stage for a significant discovery.
Collapse of the Trench
While excavating, a trench unexpectedly collapses on Brown, posing a dangerous situation. Fortunately, he is rescued in the nick of time, allowing him to continue his important work at the burial site.
Bonding with Edith and Robert
As the excavation progresses, Brown develops a close relationship with Edith Pretty and her young son, Robert. Meanwhile, he neglects correspondence with his wife, May, becoming more engrossed in their lives and their challenges.
Discovery of the Iron Rivets
A significant breakthrough occurs when Brown uncovers iron rivets from a ship, suggesting that the burial site belonged to someone of high status, possibly a king. This discovery raises the stakes of the excavation and its historical importance.
James Reid Moir's Attempt to Help
Local archaeologist James Reid Moir seeks to join the excavation team but is turned away. Instead, Edith decides to bring in her cousin Rory Lomax, expanding the team despite initial resistance to outside help.
Attention from Cambridge Archaeologist
News of their discoveries reaches Cambridge archaeologist Charles Phillips, who declares the site of national importance. He assumes control of the dig site, signifying the increasing recognition of their work and its historical value.
Expansion of the Excavation Team
As the threat of war looms, Phillips enlarges the excavation team by incorporating Peggy Piggott. She plays a crucial role in unveiling the first distinctly Anglo-Saxon artifact, solidifying the site's significance.
Discovery of the Merovingian Tremissis
Brown unearths a Merovingian Tremissis, a significant gold coin from Late Antiquity. This discovery further elevates the excavation's importance, leading Phillips to classify the location as historically valuable.
Ownership Dispute over Treasures
While Phillips wishes to send the unearthed items to the British Museum, Edith asserts her ownership of the treasures, fearing the potential for damage during air raids in London. An inquest upholds her claim, but her health continues to deteriorate.
Edith's Donation to the British Museum
In a selfless gesture, Edith decides to donate the Sutton Hoo treasures to the British Museum, ensuring that Brown's contributions are recognized. Her health declines, marking a poignant moment in the narrative.
Tragic Passing of Edith Pretty
Edith Pretty passes away in 1942, leaving a legacy intertwined with the treasures of Sutton Hoo. Her death marks the end of an era but solidifies her contributions to British archaeology.
Hidden Treasures During the War
Following the outbreak of war, the treasures from Sutton Hoo are hidden in the London Underground to protect them from potential bomb damage. This decision keeps the artifacts safe during a tumultuous time in history.
Display of Artifacts Without Recognition
Years later, the artifacts are displayed in the British Museum, but Basil Brown receives no acknowledgment for his significant contributions to the excavation. This oversight reflects the challenges faced by many unsung heroes in history.
Brown's Posthumous Recognition
It isn't until recently that Basil Brown is recognized for his pivotal role in the excavation. His name is now rightfully celebrated alongside Edith Pretty's at the British Museum, rectifying the historical record.
Characters
Edith Pretty (Carey Mulligan)
Edith Pretty is a determined and thoughtful Suffolk landowner, facing personal health challenges while dealing with the responsibilities that come with her estate. Her commitment to the excavation reflects her desire to uncover the past and connect with her heritage, showcasing her strength and vulnerability.
Basil Brown (Ralph Fiennes)
Basil Brown is a self-taught archaeologist who is passionate about his work and determined to explore the mounds, showcasing his expertise and intuition. His devotion to the dig, coupled with his personal struggles, paints him as a complex character who longs for recognition and validation.
Robert Pretty (Archie Barnes)
Robert Pretty is the spirited son of Edith, who embodies innocence and curiosity. His interactions with both his mother and Basil reveal a longing for adventure and understanding, providing a youthful perspective amidst the adult challenges surrounding the excavation.
Peggy Piggott (Lily James)
Peggy Piggott is a new addition to the excavation team who seeks to prove her worth in a male-dominated field. Her journey of self-discovery and her romantic involvement with Rory highlight the struggles of women in traditional roles during the time period.
Setting
Time period
1939-1942
The film is set during the late 1930s and early 1940s, a tumultuous period in history overshadowed by the impending outbreak of World War II. This era was marked by significant archaeological advancements and the exploration of ancient sites, reflecting a growing public interest in history amidst social and political upheaval.
Location
Sutton Hoo, Suffolk
Sutton Hoo is a significant archaeological site located in Suffolk, England, known for its burial mounds from the early medieval period. The area is serene and picturesque, characterized by rolling landscapes and ancient woodlands, making it a tranquil setting for contemplation and discovery.
Themes
📜
Heritage
The theme of heritage runs deeply throughout the film, highlighting the importance of preserving historical artifacts and the connections they create to our past. The excavation at Sutton Hoo serves as a metaphor for uncovering not only physical treasures but also the stories and legacies left behind by those who came before us.
💔
Loss
Loss is poignantly explored through the characters of Edith and Basil as they navigate personal grief and unfulfilled potential. Edith's struggle with her health and the eventual loss of her life emphasizes the frailty of existence, while the loss of recognition for Basil's contributions reveals the often overlooked heroes of history.
🤝
Connection
The film intricately weaves the theme of connection, showcasing the bonds formed between characters through shared experiences and challenges. The relationship between Edith and Basil highlights a deep mutual respect and admiration, while other connections reveal the complexities of love, commitment, and loyalty in times of strife.
Featured on this page
What's After the Movie?
Not sure whether to stay after the credits? Find out!
Check out our other apps:
Actors
Companies
Latest Movies
© 2024 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.