"But don't shrug off this gutsy film one of the best movies of 2025. It was released in a smattering of theaters before its January-wide push. It deserved better. Fastvold's sweeping vision keeps you in its thrall from the opening title sequence that sends you back to the mid 18th century and into the realm of the Shakers. The film is intricately detailed and passionately alive, delivering a non-judgmental overview of a lesser-known religious figure,"
"Mother Ann, as Lee was called, was one of history's few female faith leaders, which is probably why we don't know that much about her. She sought to help establish a Utopian church community where everyone had a seat at the table and treated others with kindness and respect. Sex, though, was a big no-no. Fastvold reunites with writing partner Brady Corbet (also her husband and director of last year's Oscar-winning The Brutalist) and they"
Mona Fastvold directs a music-infused biopic that traces Ann Lee's 18th-century rise as founder of the Shakers. Amanda Seyfried portrays Mother Ann with a transcendent, ethereal presence that elevates the material. The film opens with a title sequence transporting viewers to mid-18th-century England and immerses them in intricately detailed Shaker life. Lee's commitment to a Utopian church community emphasized equality, kindness, respect, and celibacy after the loss of four infant children. Fastvold and co-writer Brady Corbet avoid conventional biopic beats, mapping Lee's spiritual journey from Quaker influence through existential transformation, supported by loyal companions including her gay brother.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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