‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ Trailer: Amanda Seyfried Gets Best Actress Oscar Buzz in Religious Drama From ‘The Brutalist’ Filmmakers

The trailer for “The Testament of Ann Lee,” a historical drama starring Amanda Seyfried, has been released.

“The Testament of Ann Lee” takes place in the 18th century and follows Ann Lee (Seyfried), the founding religious leader of the Shaker Movement, who is proclaimed as the female embodiment of Christ. The film depicts her establishment of the utopian society while the Shakers worship with song and dance. 

Praised by film critics and festivalgoers, “The Testament of Ann Lee” touches on faith, isolation and female empowerment set against the backdrop of more than a dozen original Shaker hymns. Seyfried is receiving major Oscar buzz for her role, and Variety’s awards editor Clayton Davis currently predicts that she’ll get a best actress nomination.

In addition to Seyfried, the ensemble cast includes Lewis Pullman, Thomasin McKenzie, Stacy Martin, Christopher Abbott and Tim Blake Nelson. 

Mona Fastvold serves as director while also co-writing and producing alongside Brady Corbet. The two previously collaborated on “The Brutalist,” which earned 10 Academy Award nominations and won three, including best actor for Adrien Brody, cinematography and original score. It also took home three Golden Globes for best motion picture (drama), director (for Corbet) and actor.

“The Testament of Ann Lee” premiered in competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on Sept. 1, where it competed for the Golden Lion. At the festival, Seyfried received a 15-minute standing ovation for her performance. 

The film is set to open in theaters with a limited release on Dec. 25.

Check out the trailer for “The Testament of Ann Lee” below: