You probably don’t know much about Ann Lee. I know I didn’t know much about her prior to checking out the new drama, The Testament of Ann Lee. It serves as a biopic for this woman who was an early founder of a religious movement in England and the United States.

Ann Lee cut an imposing figure. She was devout in her faith and proclaimed the Gospel to many in her years. And yet, her story hasn’t been widely celebrated until now. This new film is a gorgeous exploration of her life and ministry, told through moving music and a spectacular lead performance.

At the outset, we meet a young Ann at home in 18th Century England. Her faith and her approach to intimacy are formed, in part, due to what she sees and rejects in the life of her parents. It earns her a stern reproach from her father, but she won’t be swayed. Soon, we leap forward as Ann (Seyfried), now an adult, it is getting involved in the Shaker movement.

The Shakers are a deeply spiritual people with a unique approach to faith, which includes singing and dancing. It captures Ann’s heart. So, too, does Abraham Standerin (Christopher Abbott). Soon, they are married despite Ann’s misgivings about physical intimacy. She conceives four times. All four die in infancy. Shattered, she has a revelation about faith, God, and her mission on Earth.

Soon christened Mother Ann, she begins to teach and preach this vision, which has strict positions on violence and intimacy. It causes hiccups in her marriage, and often makes her a target in the community. Undeterred, she and a band of followers move to the American colonies. There, while her husband leaves her, she and a devout group that includes her brother (Lewis Pullman) begin their ministry anew.

Despite criticism from local authorities and often brutal attacks from those who reject the movement, Ann remains faithful to her beliefs and her vision from God, spreading her movement in a new land.

This film is written by Mona Fastvold and Brady Corbet, with Fastvold directing the film. The pair worked on The Brutalist together in 2024, and now are back with another twisty and engaging tale. While the severity of the story in The Brutalist didn’t connect, I was deeply engaged and moved by this tale of Ann Lee.

This film has an excellent look. The costumes and world-building take you right into her story and the time period. It’s also mixed with some engaging musical performances, including some original songs that will stick with you. It’s a unique approach to the story that I found incredibly moving and engaging.

It’s also lifted by a sublime lead performance. Seyfried is a gifted actress who has delivered in a number of other roles, but this might be her best and most ambitious work to date. She’s incredible on the screen, inhabiting this role and drawing you in. And her work in the musical numbers is also incredibly moving. She’s been recognized already this awards season, and I expect that to continue when we get to the Academy Award nominations.

The Testament of Ann Lee is a unique film that tells a unique story. It’s content and style might not appeal to all viewers, but it is certainly a unique achievement in the 2025 cinematic landscape. For me, it was one of the best films of the year and well worth seeking out.

The Testament of Ann Lee opens in limited release on Christmas Day, going wide in January.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.