Review: Ammonite

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In 1840 England, Mary Anning (Kate Winslet) is a famed fossil hunter and introvert content on going about her routines. When a fellow scientist Roderick Murchison (James McArdle) happens in her shop looking to spend a day to learn from her, she allows him to tag along. He then decides to leave his wife Charlotte, (Saoirse Ronan) who has been suffering from depression in Mary's care. Though they initially don't get a long, they end up forming a strong and mostly silent bond.

This movie dials the melancholy up to eleven. It's all crashing waves, meticulous work, long stares and sadness. The only bit of energy put into the film at all are during its brief sex scenes between Winslet and Ronan. I think more effort was put into those scenes and into the film's campaign of talking about Winslet and Ronan playing a couple more than anything else.

Ammonite is just dull and lifeless. The costumes and set design are easy to admire and they make you feel cold while watching. Winslet and Ronan are both good in their roles, but they always are. I just didn't feel engaged with any of it and I constantly felt tempted to go off and do other things. I'm glad I waited to rent this and not pay the premium VOD rental. 

Recommended: No

Grade: C-

Memorable quote: "I feel I'm at a great disadvantage." - Mary Anning (Kate Winslet) 

Comments

  1. thevoid99February 7, 2021 at 8:32 PM

    I do want to see this. Mainly for the sex scenes. I'm a dude, I can't help but enjoy watching sex. I'm such a douche. I'm sorry.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Brittani BurnhamFebruary 8, 2021 at 11:19 AM

      LOL honestly you can admit it. I'd be lying if I didn't watch movies specifically for that reason either.

      Delete
  2. keith71_98February 8, 2021 at 10:19 AM

    This is one of the few late season 2020 movies I never got around to seeing. Mainly because most of the reviews I read felt similar to how you did. Like those two stars but can't get excited for it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Brittani BurnhamFebruary 8, 2021 at 11:18 AM

      Yeah, you are definitely not missing anything by not seeing this. What a let down.

      Delete

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