From its opulent costumes and art direction to its acting, Milos Forman’s adaptation of Peter Schafer’s massive stage play in grand in every sense of the word. The film shows the relationship between the court’s composer Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham) and the wunderkind Amadeus Mozart (Tom Hulce.) Both men, through the course of their dealings are torn apart by their hidden desires, Amadeus with his desire for perfection, and Salieri with his jealousy.
What surprised me most about this film was how rewatchable it is. I caught it the first time on TCM but repeated dvd screenings have not lessened the power of this film. I attribute this most to the actors in this film. F. Murray Abraham is memorable in his Oscar winning role as Antonio Salieri provides quieter rage as compared to Tom Hulce’s showy turn as Amadeus Mozart. What’s so wonderful about these performances is that though they both could have veered off too far (either to quiet or too loud), these actors balance each other quite well. Abraham’s scenes as an old man talking to the priest are fantastic actors showcases and he never misses a beat.
But of course this movie would be nothing without the music. The glorious recreations of Mozart’s operas were astounding and the music soars along with the movie. It’s 8 Oscars were much deserved as is its place on my list of 100 films.
Best Line: “Your… merciful God. He destroyed His own beloved, rather than let a mediocrity share in the smallest part of His glory.” – Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham)
Best Scene: Mozart, on his literal death bed, and Salieri composing his final piece