Amanda Seyfried was moved to tears as her latest film, ‘The Testament of Ann Lee,’ received a standing ovation that lasted an impressive 15 minutes at the Venice International Film Festival. The emotional moment marked the longest ovation for any movie at the event, surpassing even the applause for Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein.’
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The actress was visibly emotional as she stood alongside her fellow cast and crew, including director and co-writer Mona Fastvold, during the reception. Seyfried had previously shared her feelings about portraying the film’s titular character, a religious leader, at a press conference before the premiere.
‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ tells the story of Ann Lee, the founder of the Shakers, a radical religious movement from the late 1700s. Fastvold described the film as a speculative retelling of Lee’s life, focusing on the ecstatic worship practices of the Shakers through song and movement.
Seyfried expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to portray a character where she felt there were “no tethers to anything.” She spoke of the freedom and encouragement to explore her artistry to the fullest, guided by Fastvold’s direction.
During the press conference, Fastvold praised Seyfried’s performance, citing her strength, motherly instincts, and willingness to delve into the character’s complexities. Seyfried, in turn, shared her initial hesitation about taking on the role due to the challenges it presented, including mastering a difficult accent.
The film also features a talented cast, including Thomasin McKenzie, Lewis Pullman, Stacy Martin, and Tim Blake Nelson. Fastvold co-wrote the screenplay with her husband, Brady Corbet, known for their collaboration on the award-winning film ‘The Brutalist.’
‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ is set to be a compelling addition to Seyfried’s diverse body of work, showcasing her range as an actress and her dedication to bringing complex characters to life on screen.
As the Venice International Film Festival continues, audiences eagerly anticipate the official release date of ‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ and the opportunity to experience the emotional and powerful storytelling that has captivated festival-goers.
In conclusion, Seyfried’s emotional response to the standing ovation reflects the passion and dedication she brings to her craft, leaving a lasting impact on both audiences and critics alike.