Amanda Seyfried Stars in Ambitious Venice Premiere The Testament of Ann Lee

Amanda Seyfried headlines the new historical drama “The Testament of Ann Lee.” The film premiered in competition at the Venice Film Festival. It explores the life of the 18th-century founder of the Shaker religious sect. Director Mona Fastvold presents a bold and unconventional take on the material.

The movie is a co-writing effort between Fastvold and her partner Brady Corbet. According to industry reports from Venice, the project is a large-scale, ambitious period piece. It delves into themes of faith, radicalism, and persecution.

A Story of Faith and Radicalism Under Fire

The narrative chronicles the life of Ann Lee. She was an illiterate English factory worker who became a revolutionary religious leader. After personal tragedies, she found solace in a dissident sect known as the “Shaking Quakers.”

Lee’s group faced intense persecution in England. They were accused of heresy, treason, and disrupting the peace. This forced the small band of believers to seek refuge in the American colonies. Their journey forms the core of the film’s second act.

Seyfried’s performance is described as fiercely committed and physically demanding. She portrays Lee’s unwavering conviction and the hysteria that often surrounded her movement. The film does not shy away from the more extreme aspects of Shaker worship.

Technical Ambition and Historical Context

Fastvold shot the movie on 70mm film, a rare choice for historical dramas. This format emphasizes the sweeping landscapes of the new American frontier. The director aims to immerse the audience in the period’s raw, visceral atmosphere.

The film’s musical elements are a significant highlight. Composer Daniel Blumberg adapted traditional Shaker spirituals. These songs accompany scenes of the sect’s ecstatic, whirling dance rituals. This provides a captivating look into their unique form of worship.

However, some early analysis suggests the epic treatment may overwhelm the personal story. The character of Ann Lee remains somewhat enigmatic despite Seyfried’s powerful work. The focus leans more toward the movement’s radical ideals than its founder’s intimate psychology.

The premiere of “The Testament of Ann Lee” confirms Mona Fastvold as a director with a singular vision. The film is a challenging but visually stunning exploration of a forgotten chapter in religious history. Its success will hinge on audience reception to its intense, unconventional approach.

Info at your fingertips

Who were the Shakers?

The Shakers were a Christian sect known for their ecstatic worship, communal living, and dedication to celibacy. They are also famed for their minimalist and functional furniture design, which is highly valued today.

Is the film based on a true story?

Yes, it is based on the life of Ann Lee, the real founder of the Shakers. However, as she was illiterate, much of her life is documented by others, allowing for some creative interpretation in the film.

What is the movie’s rating?

The film has not yet received an official rating. Based on its Venice premiere, it contains mature themes and intense scenes that would likely earn it an R rating.

When is the release date?

A wide release date has not been announced following its festival premiere. Distribution deals are typically negotiated at events like Venice, so a date should be confirmed soon.

Who else stars in the film?

The cast includes Lewis Pullman, Christopher Abbott, and Thomasin McKenzie. McKenzie also serves as the film’s narrator, providing the perspective of a young Shaker follower.

Trusted Sources: Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Reuters, Associated Press