‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ now on digital
Category: Television and Streaming
Amanda Seyfried stars in The Testament of Ann Lee, a story based on the legend of the Shaker founder. With intense scenes as well as songs and dancing, this is an interesting movie about one woman whose devotion led her to question the religious teachings of the day, the moral standards of her time, relationships between men and women, and to strive to form a utopian society.
The filmmakers did extensive research about Ann Lee and her experiences in order to create this film.
Ann Lee’s story is not widely known. She grew up in the 1700s in England, and moved to America with the intent of creating an equal society where people could live their lives in a harmonious place, aka utopia.
Writer/director Mona Fastvold said, “For me, being an artist is always about striving to create the impossible – that’s what drew me to Ann Lee. This film is offered as a tribute to her dream – and the silence that now surrounds it.”
There is a bonus feature that delves into the cast and story. This is a visually dark film, which breaks into dance and movements as well as songs. This behind-the-scenes feature looks at the history of the time, the history of Ann Lee, and how the filmmakers decided to represent her story as truthfully as they could.
Through research, the sets were designed to give viewers the feeling of the era, and to add to the captivating story of Ann Lee. She was a force to be reckoned with, and her steadfast idea and ideals, combined with her personal charisma, led her to found the Shakers. According to Fastvold, Ann Lee was a “wild feminist religious leader in late 1700s America.”
The story is an interesting look at this time in history, and a woman who has been widely overlooked.
The movie – along with the bonus feature – is now available on digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango.
Beginning March 31, 2026, the movie will be available on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ (for bundle subscribers in the U.S.).
This is not a film for kids. It is r
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. Francine is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.