Netflix viewers are captivated by 'The Dig,' a 2021 historical drama based on the remarkable true story of the Sutton Hoo excavation. The film, set in the 1930s, stars Carey Mulligan as heiress Edith Pretty, who employs self-taught archaeologist Basil Brown, played by Ralph Fiennes, to uncover a 1,400-year-old Anglo-Saxon ship buried in Suffolk. The Sutton Hoo discovery has been called 'Britain's Tutankhamun' and represents a pivotal moment in the nation's heritage.
Critical and Audience Acclaim
Fans have praised the film as a 'masterpiece' and a 'rare gem.' One IMDb user wrote, 'This is a superb film that I could watch again and again.' Another called it an 'absolute masterpiece,' while a third noted it is a 'magnificent way to spend an hour and fifty-two minutes.' One viewer remarked it is a 'must for anyone with a soul,' with another concurring it is 'absolutely a must watch movie.'
The film has also been described as 'beautiful,' a 'definite tearjerker,' and 'very reminiscent of Downton Abbey.' One fan declared, 'For me, it all added up to a wonderful story, and arguably the best Netflix produced fictional movie I've ever seen.'
Cast and Production
Carey Mulligan, known for 'Promising Young Woman' and 'Beef,' headlines the cast alongside Ralph Fiennes, famous for 'Harry Potter' and 'Schindler's List.' They are joined by Lily James ('Mamma Mia!'), Johnny Flynn ('Goodbye June'), and Ben Chaplin ('Apple Tree Yard'). The film is directed by Simon Stone, based on the novel by John Preston.
Streaming Availability
'The Dig' is available to stream exclusively on Netflix. For viewers without a subscription, Sky offers a free Netflix subscription with its Sky Stream TV bundles, including the £15 Essential TV plan, which also includes shows like the new UK drama 'Unchosen' starring Asa Butterfield and Christopher Eccleston.



