The film The Testament of Ann Lee, directed by Mona Fastvold, presents a poignant narrative about faith, discrimination, and the quest for acceptance. Set in the 1800s, the film follows the life of Ann Lee, played by Amanda Seyfried, whose journey reflects both personal and communal struggles within the Shaker religious movement.
This latest work from Fastvold, known for her previous directorial ventures and as a writer on The Brutalist, marks her boldest undertaking to date. The film combines elements of folk music and dance, creating an atmosphere that is both engaging and thought-provoking. While not strictly a musical, it incorporates musical elements throughout, with songs that range from traditional Shaker hymns to original compositions by Daniel Blumberg.
Ann Lee’s Journey of Faith and Struggle
The narrative begins in Manchester, England, in 1736, where Ann Lee is born into a challenging environment. Working in a cotton factory alongside her brother William, Ann faces early trauma that shapes her beliefs about sin and sexuality. As she matures, her experiences lead her to become a follower of the Quaker faith, significantly influenced by James and Jane Wardley, who preach that the second coming of Christ will be a woman.
As Ann, William, and her niece Nancy embrace this radical belief, they become part of a sect known as the “Shaking Quakers,” characterized by their exuberant expressions of faith through song and dance. However, their unconventional practices lead to conflict with local authorities and residents, culminating in violent confrontations. Ann’s imprisonment serves as a pivotal moment, where a vision compels her to advocate for complete abstinence from sexual activity, even within marriage. This revelation creates tension within her marriage to Abraham and challenges the group’s cohesion.
With the backing of a benefactor, Ann and her followers journey to America, aiming to establish a new society based on their beliefs. Despite beginning with eight followers, Ann’s strict rules and revelations lead to dwindling numbers, yet her determination to create a safe space for their faith remains unwavering.
A Distinctive Cinematic Experience
Visually, The Testament of Ann Lee is strikingly stylized. The film features a narration from one of Ann’s followers, which, while breaking traditional storytelling norms, enhances the epic feel of the narrative. The choreography, led by Celia Rowlson, brings vibrant energy to scenes where followers erupt into song and dance, resembling large-scale productions reminiscent of contemporary music videos.
The film does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of life, including themes of violence and intolerance, making it a multifaceted exploration of faith and societal rejection. Despite its runtime exceeding two hours, the storytelling is expansive, taking viewers on a journey across the seas to a new world filled with promise and challenges.
The performance by Amanda Seyfried has been lauded as one of her best, showcasing her range as an actress. She is joined by a talented ensemble cast, including Lewis Pullman, Christopher Abbott, and Tim Blake Nelson, all of whom contribute to the film’s compelling narrative.
At its core, The Testament of Ann Lee is a timely reflection on the quest for religious freedom and the intolerance faced by those with differing beliefs. As audiences engage with this powerful story, they are reminded of the ongoing struggles for acceptance and understanding that resonate in today’s society.
The film will be screening at Luna starting on February 26, 2024, offering viewers an opportunity to witness this bold exploration of faith and discrimination.
