Premise: This drama focuses on archaeologist Basil Brown, played by Ralph Fiennes, who is employed to investigate mounds on an English estate during World War II. The archaeologist focuses on uncovering a burial ground even as the ongoing war reaches closer and closer.
The wealthy Edith Pretty (played by Carey Mulligan) owns the land and hires the as-of-yet unknown archaeologist as local museums are engaged in the war effort. Pretty and the Brown become friends, providing solace as the world around them goes to hell.
The movie is based on a 2007 historical novel of the same name by John Preston.