“The Testament of Ann Lee”: A Rapturous Epic of Faith and Transcendence
Mona Fastvold’s The Testament of Ann Lee, a 2025 epic historical musical drama, is garnering critical acclaim for its audacious and deeply moving portrayal of Ann Lee, the 18th-century founder of the Shaker movement. Starring Amanda Seyfried in a career-defining performance, the film premiered at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2025, and received a limited theatrical release in the United States on December 25, 2025, and in the United Kingdom on February 27, 2026, via Searchlight Pictures.
A Spiritual Fever Dream Brought to Life
The Testament of Ann Lee distinguishes itself as a historical epic, a spiritual exploration, and a full-bodied musical centered around the unique worship practices of the Shakers – known for their trembling and dancing as pathways to transcendence. Fastvold, who co-wrote the screenplay with Brady Corbet, avoids both hagiography and cynicism, instead presenting Ann’s visions and prophecies as the driving force behind a woman determined to reshape the world.
Narrative Structure and Visual Storytelling
The film unfolds in three distinct chapters: Manchester, migration, and America. The early scenes, set in pre-industrial England, are characterized by a dense and claustrophobic atmosphere, visually emphasizing the constraints Ann Lee sought to escape. This aesthetic, reminiscent of Hogarthian rawness, depicts the harsh realities of the time. As the narrative shifts to the Atlantic crossing aboard the Götheborg, the visual language expands, mirroring Ann Lee’s journey from confinement to possibility.
Music and Movement as Expression
A key element of the film’s distinctiveness is its embrace of the musical form. Unlike conventional period musicals, The Testament of Ann Lee integrates the ecstatic worship of the Shakers – their trembling dances and embodied confessions – as the film’s expressive core. Choreographer Celia Rowlson-Hall crafts movement that evolves from raw gestures to distilled clarity, representing communication, shared grief, and collective faith. Seyfried performs live vocals throughout the film, fully immersing herself in the role.
Seyfried’s Acclaimed Performance
Amanda Seyfried’s performance as Ann Lee has been widely praised, with critics describing it as “career-best.” [1] She portrays Ann’s spiritual fervor with fearless intensity, encompassing moments of vulnerability, surrender, and unwavering conviction.
Soundscape and Production Design
The film’s soundscape, composed by Daniel Blumberg, reimagines traditional Shaker hymns into a blend of ancient and modern sounds. The utilize of hand bells, celeste, layered choirs, and glossolalic vocals creates a devotional yet destabilizing sonic environment. Production designer Sam Bader and costume designer Małgorzata “Gosia” Karpiuk contribute to the film’s visual arc, mirroring Ann Lee’s internal journey from the chaos of Manchester to the spiritual order of Shaker America. The Shaker spaces emphasize simplicity and intention, reflecting a harmonious relationship with nature.
Themes of Community and Creation
The Testament of Ann Lee frames Ann Lee as a radical visionary who believed in the power of community, equality, and the transformative potential of art. The film’s collaborative spirit echoes the Shakers’ communal labor and pursuit of perfection. In a cinematic landscape often hesitant towards sincerity, the film dares to take faith seriously without proselytizing, finding humor and warmth amidst austerity.
Availability
The Testament of Ann Lee is currently screening in Australian theatres from February 26th, 2026, including 35mm and 70mm showings at select locations.