Key Points
Amanda Seyfried shared personal views on community and shared care while promoting The Testament of Ann Lee.
Speaking at the SCAD Film Festival, she reflected on how the film reshaped her perspective on modern society.
Seyfried connected the film’s themes of communal living to contemporary political and social divisions.
She described socialism as an ideal rooted in mutual support rather than political ideology.
The actress emphasized unity, empathy, and collective responsibility as missing elements in today’s culture.
A Film Promotion Turns Into a Broader Conversation
Amanda Seyfried offered thoughtful reflections on politics, community, and shared responsibility while promoting her latest drama, The Testament of Ann Lee. Speaking at the SCAD Film Festival, the Oscar-nominated actress linked her work on the film to broader conversations about how people care for one another in today’s society.
Her remarks went beyond the movie itself, touching on social values that she believes have faded amid growing division.
Portraying Ann Lee and the Roots of Communal Living
In the film, Seyfried portrays Ann Lee, the 18th-century religious figure who founded the Shakers. The movement was built on principles of equality, shared labor, and communal support.
Seyfried said embodying Lee forced her to reflect on how those ideals compare to modern life. She expressed frustration with today’s polarized climate and questioned why collective care has become so politicized.
“How about we all don’t have any kind of agendas?” she asked, suggesting that simply looking out for one another should not be controversial.
A Reflection on Unity and Collective Care
Seyfried described socialism as “a gorgeous idea,” framing it not as a political system but as a mindset rooted in generosity and shared responsibility. She explained that having more resources can mean being able to give more back to others.
She cited the period following the September 11 attacks as an example of instinctive unity, recalling a time when communities came together without hesitation. That sense of togetherness, she said, feels largely absent today.
Art, Trauma, and a Modern Message
The themes of trauma and healing in The Testament of Ann Lee appear to have left a lasting impression on Seyfried. She questioned the role of greed and ego in modern culture, arguing that these forces drive people apart.
At a fundamental level, she said, most people want the same things: to feel valued, loved, and understood. Her experience working on the film reinforced that belief.
What Happens Next?
As The Testament of Ann Lee continues its festival run, Seyfried’s comments are likely to spark further discussion about how historical stories can inform present-day values. While the film explores the past, the actress’s reflections suggest its themes may resonate strongly with audiences navigating an increasingly divided world.
