Amadeus (1984)

Introduction

There were very few great movies in the 1980s but not only did Amadeus (1984) become the best film of the decade, some people now regard it as one of the greatest films of all time. Dark, intense and sometimes even comedic, this movie based on a play based on a rumour of the death of one of the most prolific composers of all time is a perfect rewatch just to take in all of the atmosphere. It is a truly wonderful movie, fantastically acted and incredibly put together. From the cinematography to the dialogue to the performances to the music, everything in this movie is perfect. In all the years I have watched and rewatched it, I have never been able to fault it at all. Dare I say that it could be one of the most perfect films ever made? Yes, I dare.

Plot

The movie starts off with the attempted suicide of the composer Salieri who then admits to causing the death of the composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The film flashes back on to the envy that Salieri had for Mozart not simply because Mozart was a better composer, but Salieri saw Mozart as his social inferior. With a raucous nature, a squeaky-giggly laugh and the natural ability of a prodigy, Mozart causes Salieri to go green with envy as he scaffolds and styles the downfall and death of his adversary who, adorably sees Salieri as a friend.

As the film moves along, we see some of Mozart's most incredible compositions and operas including the famed Don Giovanni. As Salieri sees his musical superior rise through the ranks, the audience also sees that Mozart cannot possibly control himself. His life of excess brings him not only trouble but causes him to remain financially destitute no matter what he does. In an opportunity to earn money, he composes The Magic Flute, and the famed Lacrimosa as he lies on his deathbed. An ending which is not only dark and intense, but juxtaposes Mozart's personality perfectly to show the intense envy of Salieri.

Appraisals and Awards

I have to say though I do adore F. Murray Abraham and I am happy he won the Academy Award for Best Actor, he is not really the one you remember when you watch this movie - not even in the slightest. I would like to suggest that Mozart was robbed of the Oscar for Best Actor - there was not much competition. Though that is the case, Tom Hulce did not need an Oscar to tell him he is a legendary actor. A well-deserved Best Picture Academy Award led this film to go down in history as one of the most-loved cinematic experiences of the 20th Century.

Apart from this, Amadeus (1984) won the Academy Award for Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Makeup and Best Sound. Honestly, this film just took it all.

Legacy

"[It is a] magnificent film, full and tender and funny and charming..." - Roger Ebert on Amadeus (1984)

The legacy of this film is absolutely huge as to this day, it is still known as one of the greatest films ever made (which is why it is included here). A reputation that does not over-exaggerate and a list of awards, accolades and positive reviews from some of the most esteemed writers of film makes for an enduring legacy for this incredible movie.

In 2019 it entered the National Film Registry and honestly, it was really late for that film. I was surprised it wasn't chosen earlier.

My Personal Opinion

It is in my top ten favourite films of all time and is quite possibly my favourite film of the 1980s. A classic tale of deception and envy, this film may lay claim to biopic but it definitely is not historically accurate. I remember seeing this film for the first time in my teens and then learning that the most historically accurate thing was the portrayal of Mozart. I mean, out of everything, that was the thing that was historically accurate?

Anyways, the film is always tons of fun for a rewatch. It isn't overly long and it doesn't become vain in any way. It is a beautiful movie which requires you to keep watching it over and over again with every single watch getting more exciting. One thing you learn after many rewatches is that everything about the differences between Mozart and Salieri are not just deliberate, but they are necessary.

Conclusion

If given the chance, I will never stop talking about this film. It is one of the most well-made films of all time and stands out as a near-perfect mixture of genres. Remember, it isn't history and it isn't supposed to be. It's a film, based on a play, based on a rumour about the death of a prolific composer. Just let it have its fun and I'm sure you will want to watch it over and over. I guarantee it.