As an 'epic' (so to speak), The Testament of Ann Lee checks most of the boxes. It is beautifully photographed, shows off exquisite set pieces, and features scenes of numerous actors dancing and singing to choreography complex and - at times - beautiful. To top it off, Amanda Seyfried's performance in the titular lead role is brave and admirably engrossing. The story centers on Ann Lee, a woman in rural england in late 18th century who, disillusioned with sexism and inequality, begins the religious Shaker movement. The first thirty minutes are equal parts compelling and disturbing (all of Ann's four children die before reaching the age of one), instilling within the viewer a conflicted sense of euphoric disconcertment.
Yet for all its bravado, the movie, at well over two hours, delves far too often into the devout religious dogma, focusing on the Shaker faith rather than any rational, internal conflicts of its characters. The dialogue is heavy handed, and often distances the viewer further from the protagonists they're supposed to identify with. One can only watch dozens of cultish faithful swaying and singing, praying to the imaginary heavens for something that never manifests into a palpable reality, before saying, Wtf is this??
The Testament of Ann Lee is that rare misfire, a near perfect production, technically superb, and marred only by an insignificant script. The real shame is that Seyfried's performance is wasted on such drivel; she deserves a better story than this irrelevant fluff.
☆1/2
No comments:
Post a Comment