Directed and co-written by Mona Fastvold with Brady Corbet, this dramatic biopic stars Amanda Seyfried, Lewis Pullman, and Tim Blake Nelson. The film will be released in theaters in France on March 11, 2026. Inspired by the life of Ann Lee, a central figure in the Shaker religious movement, it traces a journey marked by the quest for an egalitarian community.
Ann Lee, founder of a cult promoting equality and social justice, wins followers through her spiritual approach and determination. The story shows how her words and influence spread throughout rural America. Her visions, interpreted by her followers as a sign of collective renewal, fuel the movement's early structures.
Ann Lee's progress confronts her loved ones with fundamental decisions related to community organization and practices. The construction of a spiritual utopia fuels the entire narrative, supported by musical sequences punctuated by traditional Shaker songs.
The production brings together several international partners. The film features choreography by Celia Rowlson-Hall. The original music is composed by Daniel Blumberg. The cast includes Amanda Seyfried, Thomasin McKenzie, Lewis Pullman, Tim Blake Nelson, Christopher Abbott, Stacy Martin, Matthew Beard, Scott Handy, Viola Prettejohn, Jamie Bogyo, and David Cale. According to the film crew, the staging is based on a choral interpretation of historical Shaker songs.
The atmosphere leans toward a sensory approach focused on ritual, community life, and the group's internal struggles. The film is aimed at viewers who are drawn to biographical stories, historical dramas, and musical works centered on religious movements.
The Testament of Ann Lee
Film | 2026
In theaters March 11, 2026
Biopic | Running time: 2 hours 10 minutes
By Mona Fastvold | Starring Amanda Seyfried, Lewis Pullman, Tim Blake Nelson
Original title: The Testament of Ann Lee
Nationality: United States
The film offers an immersion into the emergence of the Shaker movement and the quest for a community based on spirituality and equality.
To extend your theater experience, check out March's new movie releases, films currently showing, and our selection of biopics of the year.
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