The Testament of Ann Lee
Seen it?2025 | 137 min | History, Drama, Music
Sunday Safe Betearly ratingWhy it’s a Sunday Safe Bet
Critics loved it (88% on Rotten Tomatoes) and people are still talking about it, though it had a box office loss and a lukewarm 6.3 out of 10 from audiences. A safe bet when you want something reliable.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for history buffs. If you loved Rocketman or Amadeus, start here. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
- The mood
- Thoughtful and character-driven.
- The pace
- Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr 17 min.
- What might put you off
- Rated R: meant for adults.
- Audiences were cooler on it than critics.
The extraordinary true legend of Ann Lee, founder of the devotional sect known as the Shakers, who preached gender and social equality and was revered by her followers as the female Christ.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsVery strong
88% on Rotten Tomatoes, 80 on Metacritic
- AudiencesBelow par
6.3 out of 10
- AwardsStrong
Won 1 Independent Spirit Award: Film Independent Spirit Awards: Best Editing. Also nominated for 1 Golden Globe and 2 Critics' Choice Awards. Plus 4 other awards.
- Box office & staying powerWeak
$4 million worldwide on a $10 million budget
- Buzz & cultural impactVery strong
About 1.5 million people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
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Cast & crew
Directed by Mona Fastvold
- Amanda SeyfriedAnn Lee
- Lewis PullmanWilliam Lee
- Thomasin McKenzieMary Partington / Narrator
- Matthew BeardJames Whittaker
- Christopher AbbottAbraham Standerin
- Viola PrettejohnNancy Lee
- David CaleJohn Hocknell
- Stacy MartinJane Wardly
- Scott HandyJames Wardley
- Jeremy WheelerJohn Townley