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The Testament of Ann Lee Review

Mona Fastvold’s latest endeavor is almost impossible to describe, but will certainly cast its bizarre spell on many viewers. Amanda Seyfried gives her most potent performance yet, portraying a woman whose faith and guidance becomes relentless in the face of tragedy and hardship. The film brings to light the story of the Shakers, a religious group whose form of worship and communion were rather unique, and compliments the musical element of the film, as their worship is practically in very visceral song and dance. Lewis Pullman and Thomasin McKenzie also greatly stand out here.

Amanda Seyfried as Ann Lee leads a spiritual dance in The Testament of Ann Lee
Amanda Seyfried as Ann Lee in The Testament of Ann Lee

The cinematography and the editing make the film almost dream-like, to evoke the state of divinity the worshippers must’ve felt, but also touches on intense and difficult imagery that tests the characters and their surroundings to the brink. Though it’s a slow burn that may lose some for various reasons, it’s also captivating and singular. It works not just as a biopic but as a fascinating experiment that boasts an incredible leading performance from Seyfried. The film is darkly beautiful and visionary, and it’s impossible to resist its hallucinatory trance.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Review by: Gal Balaban

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