Teaser Trailer: "The Testament of Ann Lee"
Searchlight has released the trailer for the historical drama musical film The Testament of Ann Lee, which will be shown in 70mm format and opens in select cinemas on Christmas Day.
Filmmakers and Collaboration
Norwegian filmmaker and actress Mona Fastvold, known for The World to Come, directs the film and co-wrote the script with her partner, filmmaker Brady Corbet. The duo also collaborated on Corbet’s previous films The Brutalist, The Childhood of a Leader, and Vox Lux. They have brought back key contributors, including choreographer Celia Rowlson-Hall and Oscar-winning composer Daniel Blumberg.
Plot and Themes
The Testament of Ann Lee is inspired by the true story of Ann Lee, the founder of the Shakers, a devotional sect. Amanda Seyfried, an Oscar nominee, stars as Ann Lee, a leader who championed gender and social equality and inspired deep devotion among her followers.
The film aims to “capture the ecstasy and agony of her quest to build a utopia.”
Musical Approach and Cast
The movie transforms more than a dozen traditional Shaker hymns into grand singing and dancing numbers, blending history with musical expression. The cast includes Thomasin McKenzie, Lewis Pullman, Tim Blake Nelson, Christopher Abbott, Stacy Martin, Matthew Beard, Scott Handy, Viola Prettejohn, Jamie Bogyo, and David Cale.
Summary: The film creatively brings to life the remarkable story of Ann Lee and her Shaker community through a vibrant musical drama featuring a talented ensemble cast.