Home / Arts and Entertainment / Shakers Founder Biopic Secures Searchlight for 2026 Oscars
Shakers Founder Biopic Secures Searchlight for 2026 Oscars
3 Oct
Summary
- Mona Fastvold's "The Testament of Ann Lee" to release on Christmas 2025
- Stars Amanda Seyfried as Shakers founder Ann Lee
- Film acquired by Searchlight Pictures for North American distribution
In a move that boosts its awards season prospects, Searchlight Pictures has acquired the North American distribution rights to Mona Fastvold's dramatic musical "The Testament of Ann Lee." The film, which stars Amanda Seyfried in a critically acclaimed performance as Shakers founder Ann Lee, will now receive a limited theatrical release on Christmas Day 2025, making it eligible for the 2026 Academy Awards.
"The Testament of Ann Lee" had previously gone a long time without securing a U.S. distributor, leading many to question whether it would make the cut-off for the 98th Oscars. However, Searchlight's timely acquisition ensures the film will now be in contention for next year's awards season.
Fastvold, who wrote and directed "The Testament of Ann Lee," previously co-wrote last year's American epic "The Brutalist," which won several Oscars. Now, the roles have reversed, with Fastvold's partner Brady Corbet lending his co-writer credit to "Ann Lee." With Searchlight's backing, the film is poised to be a major awards season player in 2026.
