The Empire Film Podcast The Evolution Of O'Horror (ft. guests Amanda Seyfried & Mona Fastvold)
Feb 27, 2026
Amanda Seyfried, actress and singer, talks about preparing vocally and physically for The Testament Of Ann Lee. Mona Fastvold, director and writer, discusses crafting movement, visuals and production choices. They explore choreography, syncing camera with dancers, tricky set logistics and handmade visual effects. Lively, focused conversation on staging a bold musical biopic.
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Internet Creepypastas Are Becoming Vibe-Driven Films
- A24's adaptation of the Backrooms meme points to a trend: analog-influenced, vibe-driven horror can become feature films by leaning into atmosphere over conventional narrative.
- Early marketing leaned on unsettling minimalist imagery and the shared internet-origin mythology to build intrigue.
Scorsese Reassembles A Stellar Cast For Intimate Drama
- Martin Scorsese continues to attract star power: his upcoming What Happens at Night will reunite Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Jared Harris, Mads Mikkelsen and Patricia Clarkson.
- The film premise involves an American couple traveling to a snowy European town to adopt a baby, hinting at intimate drama under Scorsese's lens.
How Mona and Amanda's Longstanding Rapport Launched Anne Lee
- Mona Fastvold first met Amanda Seyfried in their early 20s and later directed her on a TV show, which built trust for the Anne Lee collaboration.
- Mona tested Amanda's commitment by warning about a tight, physically intense shoot in Hungary and learning accents, and Amanda accepted despite the hardships.