Amadeus

Amadeus is a captivating drama directed by Milos Forman that delves into the life and rivalry between composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri.

Synopsis

The film begins with an elderly Antonio Salieri (played by F. Murray Abraham) attempting suicide and later confessing to a priest about his role in the death of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (played by Tom Hulce). Salieri, once a celebrated composer in the court of Emperor Joseph II, recounts his life story and the events that led to his deep-seated envy and ultimate betrayal of Mozart.

As a young man, Salieri is deeply religious and vows to dedicate his life to composing music that glorifies God. His ambitions are seemingly realized when he is appointed as the court composer. However, his world is turned upside down upon the arrival of Mozart, a vulgar and immature genius whose music surpasses anything Salieri could ever hope to achieve.

Salieri’s initial admiration for Mozart’s talent quickly turns into bitter jealousy. He cannot reconcile how God could bless such an unworthy individual with such extraordinary talent. Salieri’s envy drives him to sabotage Mozart’s career, all while outwardly pretending to be his friend and supporter.

Despite Salieri’s efforts, Mozart continues to produce masterpieces, including “The Marriage of Figaro,” “Don Giovanni,” and “The Magic Flute.” As Mozart’s health deteriorates due to his intense work schedule and financial struggles, Salieri seizes the opportunity to commission a Requiem Mass, intending to claim it as his own after Mozart’s death.

The film reaches its emotional climax as Mozart, gravely ill, dictates the Requiem to Salieri, who is both awed and tormented by Mozart’s unwavering genius. Mozart dies before completing the piece, and Salieri is left to face the crushing realization that he will never be able to match Mozart’s divine gift. The film ends with Salieri declaring himself the patron saint of mediocrity, resigned to live with his guilt and jealousy.

 

  • Taglines: “Everything you’ve heard is true.”
  • Genres: Biography, Drama, Music
  • Duration: 160 minutes
  • Year: 1984
  • Rated: R
  • Metascore: 88

Interesting Facts

  • The film won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for F. Murray Abraham.
  • Tom Hulce, who played Mozart, learned to play several piano pieces for the film to accurately depict the musical performances.
  • The film was shot on location in Prague, using many historical sites that were contemporary to Mozart’s time.
  • Director Milos Forman insisted on using natural lighting and candlelight for many scenes to maintain historical accuracy.
  • The screenplay by Peter Shaffer is based on his own stage play of the same name.

What Makes the Film Great?

Amadeus is celebrated for its exceptional storytelling, outstanding performances, and exquisite attention to historical detail. The film’s exploration of genius, jealousy, and the human condition resonates deeply, making it a timeless masterpiece in the world of cinema.

Director

Milos Forman directed Amadeus, bringing his unique vision and expertise to the film. Forman is also known for directing other acclaimed films such as One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and The People vs. Larry Flynt.

Cast

  • F. Murray Abraham: Antonio Salieri
  • Tom Hulce: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
  • Elizabeth Berridge: Constanze Mozart
  • Simon Callow: Emanuel Schikaneder
  • Roy Dotrice: Leopold Mozart
  • Jeffrey Jones: Emperor Joseph II

Trailer