‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ movie review

I think if “The Testament of Ann Lee” was released a few years earlier, it probably would have been nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. Nowadays, it seems like blockbusters like “F1” and “Top Gun” are being celebrated for their profits over films like “Ann Lee” that take big artistic swings. Don’t get me wrong, I like a big blockbuster as much as the next guy, but I’ve just noticed that shift and think it’s interesting.

“The Testament of Ann Lee” stars Amanda Seyfried as the founder of the devotional sect known as the Shakers and the film is unlike any movie musical I’ve ever seen.

Watch the trailer below

Instead of showtunes like you’d find in “Wicked” or “Chicago,” it was more like reimagined hymns that the characters danced to as they worshiped. And although I won’t be revisiting those songs, I did find them captivating.

The cinematography that captured those scenes was fantastic as well. It was all shot on film, which enhanced the rich atmosphere of the religious group’s settlement in the 1700s.

As for acting, Amanda Seyfried did an amazing job as Ann Lee. I think she probably should have been nominated for an Oscar over Kate Hudson and could have even won if the Best Actress field wasn’t so stacked this year.

Another thing I liked about the film is that they briefly showed how the Shakers developed their own distinctive furniture designs and architecture. And honestly, I kind of wish they focused on that more.

As for my critiques, the actual story was kind of boring at times and I wished the plot focused a little more on the gay brother. That seemed like a missed opportunity.

And because this is more of an art film, I don’t think the average person would enjoy it unless they’re really interested in the subject matter, the cinematography or the acting.

If you’ve seen the movie, let me know what you thought of it in the comments and subscribe to Pop Commentary for more film and TV reviews like this!