Amanda Seyfried Goes Feral for Ann Lee Role in “Shakers

Amanda Seyfried Stars in Venice Film Festival Shaker Musical “The Testament of Ann Lee”.Amanda Seyfried headlines a groundbreaking new film at the Venice Film Festival. The project is titled “The Testament of Ann Lee.” It is a speculative retelling of the Shakers religious sect founder’s life. The film premiered in Venice on Monday.

Amanda Seyfried’s Physically Demanding Role as Ann Lee

Seyfried portrays Ann Lee, the founder of the radical Shakers sect. The role was intensely physical and vocally challenging. Director Mona Fastvold said she cast Seyfried for her power and strength.Fastvold also praised Seyfried’s kindness and gentleness. She even noted the actress possesses a little madness. These traits were crucial for accessing the complex historical figure. The film is not a traditional musical or a standard biopic.

The Unique Vision Behind The Shaker Musical Film

The film features over a dozen original Shaker hymns. These are transformed into ecstatic movements with choreography. Celia Rowlson-Hall, who worked on “Vox Lux,” created the movement sequences.Writer and co-director Mona Fastvold co-wrote the script with Brady Corbet. The filmmakers insisted on final cut for their project. Corbet confirmed the $10 million film was a difficult pitch. He praised producer Andrew Morrison for getting it made.The cast includes Thomasin McKenzie and Lewis Pullman. Christopher Abbott and Tim Blake Nelson also appear. Music is by Oscar-winning composer Daniel Blumberg.

Ann Lee’s Story and the Film’s Historical Context

Ann Lee founded the Shakers in 1747 in England. The group was an offshoot of Quakerism. They got their name from trembling and dancing during worship.Lee believed herself to be the female incarnation of Christ. She espoused gender equality and social equality. The sect practiced strict celibacy and communal living.They eventually fled persecution to America. The Shakers settled near Albany, New York. Their goal was to build a utopian society there.

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The film explores Lee’s radical dream of a utopian world. Seyfried delivers a powerful performance under Fastvold’s unique direction. “The Testament of Ann Lee” stands out as a major Venice premiere.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is “The Testament of Ann Lee” about?

The film is a speculative retelling of Shakers founder Ann Lee’s life. It stars Amanda Seyfried in the lead role. It uses Shaker hymns and movement to tell its story.

Is this film a traditional musical?

No, the director confirms it is not a traditional musical. Characters do not sing dialogue to each other. It is better described as a film with extensive music and movement.

Who directed the film?

Mona Fastvold directed “The Testament of Ann Lee.” She co-wrote the script with her partner, Brady Corbet. Corbet also handled second unit directing duties.

How did Amanda Seyfried prepare for the role?

Seyfried said the role required incredible vocal and physical energy. She felt protected by the director’s unique vision. This allowed her to perform with complete artistic freedom.

What are the Shakers known for?

The Shakers were known for ecstatic worship practices like trembling. They were also known for their commitment to celibacy and communal living. They were a radical religious sect from England.

Where was the film premiered?

The film had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival. The premiere was held in the Sala Grande theater. The festival runs from August 27 to September 6.