Ammonite is a 2020 romantic drama film written and directed by Francis Lee. Set in the 19th century, the film tells the story of Mary Anning, a renowned fossil hunter, and her complicated relationship with Charlotte Murchison, a young woman who comes to stay with her. The film is inspired by real historical figures and explores themes of forbidden love, isolation, and the emotional struggles that define human relationships.

The film begins by introducing Mary Anning, played by Kate Winslet, who lives a solitary life in Lyme Regis, a coastal town in England. Mary is a talented paleontologist, known for her fossil discoveries, but her work is often overshadowed by the male-dominated scientific community. She lives a quiet and lonely life, spending most of her days collecting fossils along the cliffs, struggling with financial hardship, and being largely overlooked by society. Her world changes when she meets Charlotte Murchison, portrayed by Saoirse Ronan, the wife of a wealthy man who hires Mary to take care of Charlotte’s health.

As Mary and Charlotte spend time together, they form an unexpected connection. Charlotte, a woman of high social status, is initially emotionally distant and fragile due to her deteriorating health. Over time, however, she grows closer to Mary, and their relationship evolves into an intimate and passionate romance. The film portrays their love story as one filled with tension and complexity, especially given the societal constraints of the time, where same-sex relationships were forbidden and hidden.

Ammonite is not just a love story; it is also an exploration of personal growth and self-discovery. Both Mary and Charlotte are trapped by their respective circumstances. Mary is bound to her work and her humble life, while Charlotte is trapped in a loveless marriage and burdened by the expectations placed on her as a woman of high social standing. As their relationship deepens, they both begin to confront the emotional and social restrictions placed upon them, slowly finding a sense of freedom in each other’s company.

The cinematography in Ammonite is striking, with the rugged and isolated coastal landscape serving as a perfect metaphor for the emotional landscapes of the characters. The film uses the natural world, particularly the fossils that Mary collects, as symbols of the characters’ inner lives. The rawness and beauty of the environment contrast with the emotional fragility and the hidden nature of Mary and Charlotte’s love. This visual storytelling enhances the film’s atmosphere, allowing the audience to feel the isolation and longing that permeate the characters’ lives.

In conclusion, Ammonite is a hauntingly beautiful and poignant film that explores the complexities of love, loss, and identity. Through the intimate and emotionally charged relationship between Mary and Charlotte, the film sheds light on the struggles of two women seeking love in a world that would not accept them. The strong performances by Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan, combined with the stunning cinematography and emotional depth, make Ammonite a compelling and unforgettable cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits roll.