"Amanda Seyfried's Performance in 'The Testament of Ann Lee': A Stirring Display of Agony and Ecstasy in a Bold Epic, More Admirable Than Loved"

In the realm of historical dramas, "The Testament of Ann Lee" stands out as a captivating and intense film that chronicles the life of Ann Lee, the 18th century religious leader who founded the Shakers. Directed by Mona Fastvold and written by Fastvold and her partner Brady Corbet, the movie offers a unique perspective on this intriguing figure.

The narrative begins in Ann's childhood in Manchester, England, in the mid-1700s, and follows her journey through adulthood, eventually leading to her role as the founder of the Shakers. The film features a small group that includes Ann's loving brother William (Lewis Pullman) and her husband, Abraham (Christopher Abbott), who demands conjugal rights after six years of abstinence.

Ann's beliefs, rooted in the belief that fornication is the curse separating man from God, lead her to attend a revivalist meeting in the home of Jane Wardley (Stacy Martin). It is here that she experiences a spiritual awakening, which sets her on a path to establish the Shakers' community.

The film's setting is a self-sustaining society, isolated from the world, where all assets are communal. The Shakers' eventual name evolved from their original description, "Shaking Quakers," due to their fervent and ecstatic worship. The detailed construction of the 18th century ship in the film is impressive, adding authenticity to the period setting.

The film is fueled by a hysterical intensity that characterizes the Shakers' worship, and features mesmerizing songs of thanks and praise adapted by composer Daniel Blumberg from traditional spirituals. However, the film's story does not have the novelistic sweep or thematic complexity to sustain the weight of its ambitious production.

Ann remains somewhat opaque and often more strident than persuasive in her evangelism. Her illiteracy means most of what is known about her comes from second-hand accounts, which may have contributed to her somewhat one-dimensional portrayal in the film. The movie lacks personal insight into its protagonist Ann Lee to justify the epic treatment.

The film's climax includes violent attacks against the peaceful Shaker community, a stark contrast to their pacifist beliefs. The film's narration is handled by young acolyte Mary (Thomasin McKenzie), adding a unique narrative voice to the film.

Despite its shortcomings, "The Testament of Ann Lee" is a compelling watch, with Amanda Seyfried delivering a powerful performance as the title character. The film's exploration of core beliefs such as pacifism, spiritual and physical purity, social equality, and nonbinary representation of God, though not shared by all, makes for thought-provoking viewing.

In conclusion, "The Testament of Ann Lee" is a speculative account of the life of Ann Lee, offering a hysterical and ambitious portrayal of this influential religious leader. While it may not deliver the thematic depth or personal insight some viewers may expect, it is a film that is sure to spark conversation and interest in the history of the Shakers.