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The Testament of Ann Lee Puts Shaker Faith to Music as Critics Weigh Style Versus Substance

Amanda Seyfried anchors Mona Fastvold’s hybrid portrait of the 18th‑century leader using authentic Shaker hymns with ritual choreography.

Overview

  • The US/UK feature is listed at 136 minutes, rated 16+, and distributed by Disney.
  • Mona Fastvold co‑wrote the screenplay with Brady Corbet, following their Oscar‑nominated collaboration on The Brutalist.
  • Amanda Seyfried’s performance as Ann Lee has received a Golden Globe nomination.
  • The film frames the Shaker founder as a figure her followers revered as a female Christ within a celibate, egalitarian community built around sung prayer and dance.
  • Recent reviews praise the immersive musical design and visual ambition, while outlets including LA NACION and Clarín question the film’s dramatic development and character depth.