Ammonite (2020) is a beautifully crafted romantic drama written and directed by Francis Lee. Set in the 1840s, the film tells the story of Mary Anning, a pioneering paleontologist, and her passionate, forbidden romance with Charlotte Murchison, a young woman sent to stay with Anning to recover from an emotional setback. Through its nuanced storytelling, Ammonite delves into themes of love, loneliness, and the complexities of desire, all while capturing the moody and isolated landscape of coastal England, where the characters’ relationship unfolds.

The film stars Kate Winslet as Mary Anning, a solitary and determined woman who has made significant contributions to the field of paleontology but is largely overlooked by the scientific community due to her gender. Saoirse Ronan plays Charlotte, a woman from a privileged background who finds herself captivated by Mary’s strength and intellect. Their connection deepens as Mary helps Charlotte overcome her personal struggles, leading to a transformative and intimate relationship that challenges societal norms of the time. Both Winslet and Ronan deliver outstanding performances, bringing emotional depth to their characters and their unconventional love story.

One of the most striking aspects of Ammonite is its portrayal of the social and emotional constraints placed on women during the 19th century. Mary, despite her brilliance, is marginalized and forced to live a life of solitude, with her passions and ambitions overshadowed by the expectations of her gender. Charlotte, too, faces societal pressures and emotional turmoil, making her eventual relationship with Mary both an act of defiance and a deeply personal journey of self-discovery. The film powerfully explores how their love, though fraught with challenges, provides both women with a sense of freedom and fulfillment.

The cinematography in Ammonite is stunning, with the bleak, windswept coastal landscapes providing a fitting backdrop for the intimate, often painful emotions portrayed in the film. The natural world, so integral to Mary’s work as a paleontologist, serves as both a symbol of the world beyond their relationship and as a source of solace for the characters. The stark beauty of the surroundings complements the quiet intensity of the characters’ emotional journey, creating a palpable atmosphere that immerses the viewer in their world.

In conclusion, Ammonite (2020) is a poignant and emotionally rich film that explores the intersection of love, desire, and personal identity. Through its stunning performances and atmospheric direction, the film tells the story of a forbidden romance that transcends time and societal boundaries. Francis Lee’s direction and the strong performances from Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan make Ammonite a deeply moving cinematic experience. It is a compelling narrative about two women who find both liberation and heartbreak in each other’s arms, set against the backdrop of a harsh and unforgiving world.