Story perspectives

Musical on Shaker Founder Fails to Captivate Audiences

12/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

Mona Fastvold, the director, presents a musical about Ann Lee, founder of Shaker sect, set in 18th-century England, described as stultifying and plodding.
The film portrays Ann Lee's traumatic childhood and her view that sex is negative.
Critics say the musical numbers feel disconnected from the narrative, and the 137-minute runtime becomes a ritual of penance.
Overall, the film struggles to balance solemnity with entertainment and leaves viewers wanting more.

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Story summary

Mona Fastvold, the director, presents a musical about Ann Lee, founder of Shaker sect, set in 18th-century England, described as stultifying and plodding.
The film portrays Ann Lee's traumatic childhood and her view that sex is negative.
Critics say the musical numbers feel disconnected from the narrative, and the 137-minute runtime becomes a ritual of penance.
Overall, the film struggles to balance solemnity with entertainment and leaves viewers wanting more.