Amanda Seyfried’s “Testament of Ann Lee” Eyes Globes, Oscars

Mona Fastvold’s latest historical drama, “The Testament of Ann Lee,” starring Amanda Seyfried, is making a distinctive entrance into the upcoming awards season. The film has officially submitted for consideration in the Musical or Comedy categories at the Golden Globe Awards, a strategic move that highlights its unique narrative and musical elements. This positioning also comes with the confirmation of two original songs, “Clothed by the Sun” and “John’s Running Song,” penned and performed by Daniel Blumberg, which will vie for Oscar nominations.

A Strategic Golden Globe Submission

“The Testament of Ann Lee” delves into the life of Ann Lee, the 18th-century founder of the Shakers, with Amanda Seyfried in the titular role. Critics and festival attendees have recognized the film as Fastvold’s most ambitious project to date, offering a sweeping and musically infused exploration of faith, isolation, and female empowerment. The ensemble cast also features Lewis Pullman, Thomasin McKenzie, Stacy Martin, Christopher Abbott, and Tim Blake Nelson. The decision by the filmmakers and awards strategists to place the film in the Golden Globes’ musical or comedy field is a deliberate one, designed to emphasize its unconventional musical sequences and thematic irony, which blend seamlessly with its spiritual and emotional core.

The Musical Heart of Ann Lee’s Testament

The film’s distinctive soundscape is a result of Mona Fastvold’s close collaboration with composer Daniel Blumberg, a partnership that spanned from pre-production through sound mixing. This creative synergy has produced music deeply rooted in original Shaker hymns, providing an authentic and haunting spiritual essence to the narrative. Searchlight Pictures has put forward two original songs from the film, “Clothed by the Sun” and “John’s Running Song,” for awards consideration. Both tracks, crafted and performed by Blumberg, are characterized by minimalist instrumentation and choral harmonies that draw directly from traditional Shaker music.

Amanda Seyfried’s Acclaimed Portrayal

Amanda Seyfried’s performance as Ann Lee is garnering significant attention, with many describing it as a career-defining role. Her portrayal of the visionary leader, whose advocacy for celibacy, equality, and ecstatic worship challenged 18th-century societal norms, showcases her versatility as an actress. Seyfried, an Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG Award winner for her work in Hulu’s “The Dropout,” and an Oscar nominee for “Mank” (2020), was recently honored with the Vanguard Award at the SCAD Savannah Film Festival for this compelling performance.

Navigating the Awards Landscape

Entering the awards race as a late contender, “The Testament of Ann Lee” could significantly bolster Seyfried’s prospects in a particularly competitive year for lead actresses. In the Golden Globes’ musical or comedy lead actress category, she is anticipated to compete against strong contenders such as Cynthia Erivo for “Wicked: For Good,” Chase Infiniti for “One Battle After Another,” Kate Hudson for “Song Sung Blue,” and Emma Stone for “Bugonia.” Should Seyfried, Erivo, and Hudson all secure nominations in the Academy’s Best Actress lineup—all for musical roles—it would mark a rare historical moment for the Oscars, signifying a resurgence of musical performances in the category.

The Visionary Filmmaking Team

Director Mona Fastvold and co-writer/co-producer Brady Corbet are no strangers to awards success. Their previous collaboration, “The Brutalist,” achieved considerable acclaim, earning ten Academy Award nominations and winning three, including Best Actor for Adrien Brody, Cinematography, and Original Score. It also secured three Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture (Drama), Director, and Actor. Their reunion with composer Daniel Blumberg for “The Testament of Ann Lee” further solidifies their commitment to intricate storytelling and powerful musical integration.

Premiere and Release Information

“The Testament of Ann Lee” first premiered in competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 1, where it was contending for the prestigious Golden Lion award. Following its festival run, the film was acquired by Searchlight Pictures and is scheduled for a limited theatrical release on December 25, positioning it squarely within the eligibility window for major awards consideration.

Conclusion

“The Testament of Ann Lee” is poised to be a notable entry in the upcoming awards season, leveraging its unique musical elements and Amanda Seyfried’s compelling performance. With its strategic Golden Globe submission and Oscar-qualifying original songs, the film represents an artistic blend of historical drama and musical storytelling. Its journey through the awards circuit will be closely watched, potentially reviving a legacy of critically acclaimed musical performances in cinematic history.