In “The Testament of Ann Lee,” two young followers of Mother Ann, a charismatic preacher, struggle to follow her core command: celibacy. In the backdrop of a dreary 18th century New York City, the inexperienced couple sneaks away to break this crucial rule. Their leader, played by Amanda Seyfried, learns of their transgression but responds with calm rather than anger. She tells them they must leave her growing community. Director Mona Fastvold expresses curiosity about leading without ego or fear, which is a central theme of this film.
Ann Lee, born in 1736, was the driving force behind the Shakers, a religious group that promoted equality, communal living, and celibacy. At its peak, the Shaker movement boasted around 6,000 followers. Today, only three Shakers remain in the U.S., highlighting a stark contrast to its once-thriving community.
Lee was once viewed as the second coming of Christ, a perspective not widely accepted in a time when women were often undervalued. Fastvold discovered Lee’s story while making another film. Surprised that many knew little about Lee, she felt compelled to share her story, especially given Lee’s role as a proto-feminist figure in history.
Fastvold has spoken about the difficulties women face in the film industry. Kristen Stewart recently described Hollywood as a “capitalist hell” that sidelines stories about women. Fastvold echoed this sentiment, noting that creating this film was a challenging journey, especially since it combined elements of musical, historical drama, and biography—all deemed risky in Hollywood.
At a screening in London, Seyfried admitted that understanding Lee was daunting but had ultimate trust in Fastvold’s vision. Her preparation included not only live singing but also intense physicality, reflecting the worship rituals of the time. She found playing such a complex character to be both terrifying and thrilling.
In today’s film landscape, where male cult leaders often dominate the narrative, Lee’s story challenges that trope. Fastvold emphasizes that Lee’s leadership was nurturing, focused not on her own glory but on creating a safe, alternative community. She reflects on her own experience as a director, contrasting it with the traditional image of a domineering male filmmaker. This approach led her crew to lovingly call her “Mother Mona.”
Nonetheless, Lee was not without flaws. While advocating celibacy, she was married and even misled her community about her literacy. Her backstory reveals a woman shaped by trauma, leading her to reject conventional views on family and motherhood. Fastvold hopes viewers will grapple with Lee’s ideas rather than simply accept them.
As Lee’s narrative unfolds in the film, it challenges us to rethink leadership dynamics and the complexities of human experience. Fastvold’s commitment to presenting Lee as a flawed human being rather than a straightforward prophet adds depth to the story. “The Testament of Ann Lee” is sure to prompt discussions around belief, community, and individuality when it hits theaters on December 25, 2023, in the U.S. and February 20, 2026, in the U.K.
For more on the Shakers and their unique history, you can check out the Shaker Museum’s official site for detailed resources and background.
