Seyfried Shines in Hymn-Filled Drama 'The Testament of Ann Lee'

Mona Fastvold's "The Testament of Ann Lee," a historical drama starring Amanda Seyfried as the 18th-century religious leader who founded the Shakers, is set to compete in the musical or comedy categories at the upcoming Golden Globe Awards. The film, which has been hailed by critics and festivalgoers as Fastvold's most ambitious work to date, is a sweeping, musically infused portrait of faith, isolation, and female empowerment.

Seyfried, 39, continues to solidify her standing as one of the industry's most versatile performers, delivering what many describe as a career-best performance as the titular visionary whose message of celibacy, equality, and ecstatic worship defied 18th-century convention. The film's tonal fusion of music, spirituality, and emotional irony led the filmmakers, in collaboration with awards strategists, to position it in the Globes' musical or comedy field, a thoughtful choice intended to highlight its unconventional musical sequences and themes.

Reuniting with composer Daniel Blumberg, Fastvold worked closely with the experimental musician from preproduction through sound mixing to craft a soundscape rooted in original Shaker hymns. Searchlight Pictures has also submitted two original songs, "Clothed by the Sun" and "John's Running Song," for awards consideration, both of which capture the film's haunting spiritual essence.

With "The Testament of Ann Lee," Fastvold revives the legacy of musicals with non-diegetic music being nominated for Oscars, a feat that was last seen during Hollywood's 1960s musical renaissance. The film, which premiered in competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 1, is scheduled to open in limited release on December 25.