'On Chesil Beach' trailer: See Saoirse Ronan buck traditional marriage in first post-'Lady Bird' movie

By Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly

The Oscar-nominated star of Lady Bird has found a new seaside perch in the just-released trailer for On Chesil Beach.

Saoirse Ronan stars in the period romantic drama as Florence Ponting, a sheltered woman who, against the backdrop of England’s southern shores in the summer of 1962, prepares to marry a rash man, Edward (Billy Howle), from a drastically different background (much to the dismay of her family, played by Emily Watson and Samuel West).

As her wedding night approaches, Florence grows increasingly anxious about her impending union. Under unbearable scrutiny from her high society parents, she rails against the pressures of aristocratic society, tapping into her own sexual freedom and romantic curiosities. Though she explores various channels of self-liberation, the strength of her bond with Edward is tested as a result.

Directed by first-time feature helmer Dominic Cooke, On Chesil Beach premiered last September at the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival, where it (and the performances of Ronan and Howle) received generally favorable reviews from movie critics. The film’s script was adapted for the screen by Ian McEwan, based on his 2007 novel of the same name.

On Chesil Beach enters limited release via Bleecker Street on May 18. Watch the new trailer above.