The Testament of Ann Lee (2025)★ 6.6/10

The Madagascar sequel we deserve

Unfortunately a disappointment. Amanda Seyfried is amazing in this, but I just struggled to connect emotionally with this story. Religious zeal is a cool concept, and I see how Ann's earlier experiences influenced her decisions later, but something about this film just didn't connect with me. It has some cool parts, but all around I wanted more. Would not recommend unless you're really interested in the Shakers.

Back in 2024, director Brady Corbet made THE BRUTALIST, cowritten by his partner Mona Fastvold. Now, Mona is in the director chair and Brady is the cowriter for THE TESTAMENT OF ANN LEE. This is a historical musical drama and a speculative retelling of the Shaker religious movement in the 1700s. They were characterized thusly because when they openly confessed their sins, their whole body would shake and convulse. They would also break out into song, which lends itself to this being a musical. I’m not religious, but they do a great job at conveying religious euphoria and unburdening thyself. Amanda Seyfried plays the titular Ann Lee, a woman who believes she’s the 2nd reincarnation of God. Like her character, Seyfried fully commits to the role, but it feels like a missed opportunity to challenge the character a little more, maybe show some cracks. She felt assured for most of the runtime. When the role of mother was taken from her, she became a mother to all. The choreography is mesmerizing and the score is incredible. I’m not surprised, it’s from Daniel Blumberg, Oscar winner from THE BRUTALIST. It’s ridiculous that this movie’s budget is only $10 million. It spans many years and takes place in many locations. It’s extremely well-crafted. I was transported back in time. The narration from Thomasin McKenzie felt unnecessary for the most part, but I love her unique voice. Lewis Pullman plays Ann’s brother William, while Christopher Abbott plays Abraham, Ann’s husband. Overall, THE TESTAMENT OF ANN LEE is a very interesting movie with career-best performances and uniquely strange yet captivating songs that gives the audience something to look up when they get home. I recommend this ambitious piece of history.

Não amo musicais mas aqui faz total sentido, é uma maneira esperta de complementar a narrativa. Introduz a atividade corporal dos shakers ao mesmo tempo que apresenta seus hinos dando um certo movimento até mesmo admiravelmente cinematográfico pra trama.