UK | USA 2025
Opening March 12, 2026

Directed by: Mona Fastvold
Writing credits: Brady Corbet, Mona Fastvold
Principal actors: Amanda Seyfried, Lewis Pullman, Thomasin McKenzie, Matthew Beard, Christopher Abbott

In the mid-eighteenth century, Jane Wardley broke off from the Quakers to create the Wardley Society, also known colloquially as the Shaking Quakers, later the Shakers. One of the early members, Ann Lee (Amanda Seyfried) later became the leader of the group, claiming through revelations that followers must give up marriage and commit to a celibate lifestyle. This became a foundation of the religion. In 1774, she and a number of followers moved to Colonial America where they would gain a foothold and make a lasting cultural contribution to American society. The Testament of Ann Lee is a fictionalized, musical retelling of the events of Ann Lee’s life.

I went into the screening blind, not having seen the trailer nor read any of the press about it. I had never heard of Ann Lee, had a shaky (pun intended!) understanding of the Shakers, and generally didn’t know what to expect. After seeing the film, I believe that this was the right choice as it allowed for the film to come as a complete surprise. Who would have thought that a biopic about the founder of an eighteenth-century religious sect complimented by modern, experimental adaptations of Shaker hymns would be one of the best films of the year? It will certainly be a hard sell for most audiences and yet, I am happy to say, it is worth seeking out. Amanda Seyfried truly shines in the role, her dramatic depth and musical talent making this one of the finest performances of her career. Daniel Blumberg’s soundtrack is truly the heart and soul of the film and entirely unexpected and fresh. Blumberg’s original tracks compliment the adaptations of the original Shaker hymns and Seyfried’s performances are powerful and often heartrending.

In a time when it sometimes feels like most films are derivative and corporate to a fault, it is refreshing to be presented with one that is original both in concept and execution. The Testament of Ann Lee is an excellent example of how to make an innovative and meaningfully modern musical film. Be sure to check it out in cinemas as this is one film that deserves to be seen on a large screen with excellent audio. (Rose F.)