Searchlight Pictures has revealed that “The Testament of Ann Lee,” Mona Fastvold’s provocative and much-debated historical-drama musical starring Amanda Seyfried, will be available digitally starting March 10.
However, the announcement included a striking detail that has caught my attention: the film will be released solely via digital platforms, with no plans for a physical media release — which is why the digital edition includes special features, including a making-of documentary.
I didn’t particularly like “Ann Lee,” which does have its fair share of fervent defenders, but there’s a concerning trend with Disney and their push to phase out physical media. That’s why it’s notable that other Searchlight-produced films, such as “Barbarian,” are still not available in 4K or other physical formats.
Searchlight acquired “Ann Lee” in late September, no doubt after Venice reviews suggested it had potential to compete for Oscars, leading to a substantial campaign for Seyfried as Best Actress. The film ultimately received zero Oscar nominations and now appears to be put in the backburner.