Ammonite

Ammonite is a 2020 British-Australian biographical romantic drama film, written and directed by Francis Lee. The movie features stellar performances from Kate Winslet, Saoirse Ronan, and Gemma Jones, all contributing to the powerful narrative, in-depth character development and unique vision that this film offers.

The premise of Ammonite is inspired by the life of British paleontologist Mary Anning, portrayed by Kate Winslet. Set in the 1840s in the coastal town of Lyme Regis in Dorset, the plot revolves around Anning and her life as a fossil collector, dealer, and in time, a self-taught geo-scientist. Anning spent her days combing the shorelines for these ammonite fossils, a type of extinct marine animal from which the film gets its name. The opening scene presents Anning, a solitary figure, painstakingly chiselling off layers of rock to discover hidden prehistoric treasures. Anning is depicted as a focused, independent, and somewhat jaded woman, whose life had taken on a monotonous rhythm until she encounters an unexpected visitor.

The narrative takes a poignant turn with the arrival of Roderick Murchison, a wealthy tourist and amateur geologist, portrayed with great gusto by James McArdle. Murchison becomes interested in Anning's work and asks her to mentor his young wife, Charlotte Murchison, played by Saoirse Ronan. An unexpected circumstance leaves Charlotte alone with Mary in Lyme Regis and sharing Anning's modest life. The movie transforms from being merely about paleontology to a heart string-tugging drama of passion, personal discovery, and forbidden love.

Charlotte Murchison's character introduces audience to a world of constraints and unfulfilled desires, offering cinema-goers a look into the lives of women in the 19th century. Her initial vulnerability and melancholy create an interesting contrast with Anning's toughness and resoluteness, yet, as the story unfolds, unexpected parallels between the two women are revealed. The film examines the contrasting themes of introspection and expression, never failing to explore the depth of female discovery, both scientific and personal, against societal norms and expectations.

With strong supporting performances from Gemma Jones as Molly Anning, Mary's mother, and Fiona Shaw as Elizabeth Philpot, Mary’s former companion, the film introduces complex dynamics that explore the societal norms of the time. Director Francis Lee amplifies the essence of Mary Anning's world, juxtaposing its rustic charm and natural beauty against the expectations and prejudices of a patriarchal society.

The tender romance between Mary and Charlotte unfolds like the fossils of Ammonite – carefully, layer by layer. Their relationship blossoms amidst the cold winds, crashing waves, and fossil-ridden cliffs of Lyme Regis – a setting both harsh and sublime that mirrors their experiences and emotions.

Ammonite's technical aspects are noteworthy. Cinematographer Stéphane Fontaine's striking visuals and production designer Sarah Finlay’s attention to period details contribute to create an authentic historical backdrop, transporting the audience to the 19th-century seaside town. The absence of a conventional score adds to the raw, poignant intensity of the narrative, punctuated only by the ambient sounds of sea waves, creaking wood, heavy breathing, and the tapping of rock against rock.

Winslet once again proves her acting prowess, perfectly capturing the essence of Mary Anning's stoicism and isolation, and later, the intensity of her passion. Ronan's portrayal of Murchison is compelling as she navigates through her own awakening, emotionally and sensually. Although slow-paced, their evolving relationship becomes the beating heart of this film.

Far from being just another period drama, Ammonite delves into a historic figure's personal life with vibrant authenticity. Rather than exploiting her story for cinematic spectacle, the film presents its narrative with genuine care and consideration. Ultimately, Ammonite is a testament to the power of love and acceptance amidst societal norms, told through the intricacies of a relationship that was forged off the beaten path in the times of rigid conventions.