Amanda Seyfried's performance as 18th-century Shaker leader Ann Lee in Mona Fastvold's The Testament of Ann Lee was widely praised, with many considering her a shoo-in for an Oscar win. However, the film itself has been met with indifference from some viewers, who may not have fully grasped its operatic scope.
Fastvold, who co-wrote the screenplay with partner Brady Corbet, says that she hopes viewers will approach the film with an open mind, embracing both its seriousness and absurdity. "It's a very specific feeling," she explains. "You don't want to make fun of anyone, but at the same time we can't be full-on devout Shakers."
Seyfried reveals that her initial hesitation about taking on the role came from fear - she had not experienced anything like this before in her acting career. However, after immersing herself in the character's unadulterated passion and devotion, she felt a deep connection to Ann Lee.
In an interview with The New Yorker, Seyfried discussed her preparation for the film, which included extensive research into the Mancunian accent and choreography that required repetitive movement. "I was spinning so many plates," she joked. To decompress after a long day of filming, she would listen to something ridiculous like Backstreet Boys.
One aspect of Fastvold's approach to directing Seyfried was her emphasis on maternal nurturing - both women have spoken about the importance of their female relationships in shaping their perspectives as artists. "I made her move into my apartment," Seyfried reveals, describing a cozy living arrangement that fostered mutual support and understanding.
In the end, The Testament of Ann Lee is a film that challenges its viewers to approach it with an open heart and mind - one that celebrates both its operatic excesses and quiet moments of vulnerability. As Fastvold so eloquently puts it: "Isn't there always?" an autobiographical dimension to her own work, one that echoes the very qualities that make Ann Lee such a compelling figure on screen.
Fastvold, who co-wrote the screenplay with partner Brady Corbet, says that she hopes viewers will approach the film with an open mind, embracing both its seriousness and absurdity. "It's a very specific feeling," she explains. "You don't want to make fun of anyone, but at the same time we can't be full-on devout Shakers."
Seyfried reveals that her initial hesitation about taking on the role came from fear - she had not experienced anything like this before in her acting career. However, after immersing herself in the character's unadulterated passion and devotion, she felt a deep connection to Ann Lee.
In an interview with The New Yorker, Seyfried discussed her preparation for the film, which included extensive research into the Mancunian accent and choreography that required repetitive movement. "I was spinning so many plates," she joked. To decompress after a long day of filming, she would listen to something ridiculous like Backstreet Boys.
One aspect of Fastvold's approach to directing Seyfried was her emphasis on maternal nurturing - both women have spoken about the importance of their female relationships in shaping their perspectives as artists. "I made her move into my apartment," Seyfried reveals, describing a cozy living arrangement that fostered mutual support and understanding.
In the end, The Testament of Ann Lee is a film that challenges its viewers to approach it with an open heart and mind - one that celebrates both its operatic excesses and quiet moments of vulnerability. As Fastvold so eloquently puts it: "Isn't there always?" an autobiographical dimension to her own work, one that echoes the very qualities that make Ann Lee such a compelling figure on screen.
... I mean, I love Amanda Seyfried as an actress, but The Testament of Ann Lee is just soooo weird and confusing 
. I get that it's supposed to be a commentary on something, but I didn't really understand what the point was 
. And can we talk about how much research she did for this role? Like, seriously, 18th-century Shaker accent and choreography? That's dedication 
. But honestly, I would've been happy to just watch a movie where she doesn't have to do all that work 
. I mean, Amanda Seyfried's performance as Ann Lee is insane - she totally gets into her head and body 
. But what really drew me in was how Fastvold balances all these crazy elements like drama and absurdity with a more intimate vibe that makes you feel connected to the characters 
.
. They had this amazing dynamic where they'd hang out, watch movies together (Seyfried even admitted to watching Backstreet Boys) and just vibe on each other's energy 
. I think that's what makes their collaboration so special.
. It's a film that invites you to explore your own emotions and feelings - sometimes loud, sometimes quiet, but always honest 
.
She absolutely nailed it! But what really got me is how much care and attention went into bringing this character to life - the Mancunian accent, the choreography, everything 
. And it shows, right? The way she immersed herself in the role and found that deep connection with Ann Lee... it's beautiful 
.
. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good Backstreet Boys session after a long day of filming 
?
I also love how the director, Mona Fastvold, is all about embracing both the drama and the absurdity of the story - it's not afraid to get weird or uncomfortable, but at the same time, it still feels really heartfelt. 
But if you're up for it, I think The Testament of Ann Lee is a real treasure trove of interesting ideas and emotions...
! She totally brings the passion and devotion of this Shaker leader to life 
. It's like you can feel her intensity 
, even when the film itself is a bit...out there 
I think Fastvold did an amazing job with the direction 
! Listening to Backstreet Boys after a long day of filming is not a bad way to decompress 
. The film's all about embracing both the seriousness and absurdity 
, just like Fastvold said. It's like, you gotta have an open mind (and heart) for this one 
#TeamAmandaSeyfried! She totally nails that Shaker vibe 
, especially when it comes to their female friendships - I'm all about those strong sister bonds 
.
. But what really resonates with me is the film's message about embracing both sides of our selves - it's so refreshing to see something that doesn't shun absurdity or vulnerability 
. I think we can all relate to feeling like we're spinning too many plates sometimes, and it's amazing how a little bit of ridiculousness (like Backstreet Boys 
) can help us unwind. And, omigosh, the female dynamic between Amanda and Mona is just everything - those two are total soul sisters 
and can we talk about how iconic the Backstreet Boys soundtrack sounds in that interview 
to get used to its unique energy.
. The way they explored the female bond between Ann Lee and Seyfried is SO inspiring #GirlPower 
. I'm actually kinda inspired to try some new things in my own life right now 
.
. But what really gets me is how the film itself is like a big ol' puzzle 
... if you don't get the bigger picture, some parts might feel meh 
. But trust me when I say that Fastvold's direction is pure GENIUS 
! She's all about embracing the weirdness and finding beauty in it 
. It's amazing to see an actress take on a role like this and run with it. And I'm glad they prioritized their female relationships - that maternal nurturing aspect is so important for creatives, you know? 
. All in all, I think it's a movie that'll grow on you 
that'll leave you feeling all sorts of emotions.