If you only see one film this month please let it be “Ammonite…”Actually, if you see one film this year let it be “Ammonite.”
I had incredibly high expectations for this film—like the kind that made it impossible to live up to. It’s a film starring incredibly talented actresses, directed by the amazing yet criminally underrated Francis Lee. If you are unfamiliar with Francis Lee, he also directed the spectacular 2017 film “Gods Own Country.” So, obviously the expectations were high; but somehow it more than lived up to them. I am a massive fan of Saoirse Ronan, I adore her as an actress and a human being. I also love Kate Winslet: in fact, I have been since I was a child as I was obsessed with the film “Titanic.” Kate was one of my first celebrity crushes and Saoirse is my current celebrity crush—so the both of them together in a film playing lovers…I was in.
I’m a writer, yet I am unable to properly articulate how I feel towards this film. I am near speechless. It is also incredibly tough for me to keep this review spoiler-free because I want to go on and on about how this film set in the 1800s somehow struck such a familiar cord and made me feel for and relate to the characters.
I also need to mention how visually stunning this film is. Every scene is beautiful and an absolute treat for the eyes. It gives off a somewhat calming yet emotional vibe. Every single shot of the film is precise and aesthetically pleasing.
The writing and direction of the film is absolute perfection, kudos to Francis Lee. The costumes, makeup, hair, and set design are also complete and utter perfection. The score, so beautiful…The whole film, just sublime.
Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan in “Ammonite” (BBC Films, 2021).
I can’t express my love for this film enough. I don’t know how to give it justice. “Ammonite” made me cry, laugh, and fall in love with Winslet and Ronan all over again as Mary Anning and Charlotte Murchison. As Mary, Winslet is breathtaking and phenomenal; it was different from anything I had seen her do before, and she was magnificent. I didn’t feel like I was watching Kate Winslet; I saw her as her character and only her character. She helped me throw myself completely into the film because her acting was so precise and stunning. She never ceases to amaze me.
Saoirse Ronan as Charlotte was charming, awe-inspiring, and lovely.
This film is alluring and prepossessing. It is impeccable. Kate Winslet, take a bow. Saoirse Ronan, take a bow. Francis Lee, take a bow. To everyone involved in this film, thank you; this is cinema at its finest.
I can feel this film tightening its grip on me and I am already craving experiencing it again. In fact, I am already planning to see it again in a few days. I just know this is going to be a film I rewatch over and over again. The poster is going on my wall; that alone explains how I feel about this film. Not just any film makes it on my wall. I have to completely love it and it has to touch me on an emotional level—and “Ammonite” has certainly done that.
Now…If you’re still reading this review…why? Go and watch Ammonite!
*”Ammonite” is available to rent on YouTube, Google Play, Vudu, and Amazon Prime.
