Amanda Seyfried stars as Ann Lee in 'The Testament of Ann Lee,' a speculative film about the founder of the Shakers, directed by Mona Fastvold and premiered at the Venice Film Festival.

Ann Lee, born in 1736 in Manchester, faced persecution in England for her expressive worship before moving to America in 1774 to lead the Shaker movement, known for ecstatic singing and dancing.

Fastvold chose Seyfried for her strength, kindness, and ability to embody complex emotions, enabling her to portray Ann Lee's leadership, maternal instincts, and spiritual fervor.

The film received a record-breaking 15-minute standing ovation at Venice, highlighting its critical acclaim and emotional impact, with Seyfried visibly moved during the premiere.

Critics praised the film's artistic daring and emotional depth, with some describing it as elusive and strange, yet highly ambitious and innovative.

With a budget of around $10 million, the film's production was highly experimental, involving close collaboration from Seyfried and the creative team across all stages, including sound mixing.

Fastvold, returning to directing after her 2020 film 'The World to Come,' co-wrote the screenplay with Brady Corbet, and her bold, grandeur direction has been widely praised.

Fastvold emphasizes creating a sense of collective belonging through faith and cooperation, celebrating the utopian ideals of the Shaker community.

The film's second half shifts to a more somber tone, reflecting on the decline of the community and the loss of divine inspiration, exploring themes of grace and communal effort.

The film blends musical and religious elements, transforming traditional hymns into ecstatic choreography that emphasizes collective harmony and divine inspiration.

Seyfried praised the film set's sense of community and equality, which helped her face the demanding role, including adopting a northern English accent and engaging in intense vocal and physical performances.

Seyfried described her role as liberating, involving intense vocal work and physicality, and appreciated the supportive environment that allowed her to explore wild, primal sounds.