Mediocre composer Antonio Salieri plots revenge against his young rival, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who wins immortality with his musical genius. Obsessed with stopping Mozart's rise to fame, Salieri dons a disguise and attempts to exact his revenge, returning himself to fame.
F. Murray Abraham (Salieri), Tom Hulce (Mozart), Elizabeth Berridge (Constanze Mozart), Simon Callow (Emanuel), Roy Dotrice (Leopold Mozart), Christine Ebersole (Katerina), Jeffrey Jones (Emperor Joseph II).
Amadeus is a quirky, strange film that presents Mozart as a quirky, strange composer. Complicating the film is the antagonism of Salieri which is presented in a more serious manner. Include the extravagant costuming, storytelling perspective, and unusual movement between scenes and the film becomes a unique presentation challenging us to take is seriously even as we laugh at the obnoxiousness.
Acting was well done throughout the film as evidenced by the 8 oscar wins and multiple more nominations. Abraham delivered an exceptional performance while Hulce presented an incredibly quirky performance that added great depth and texture to the film. The remainder of the supporting cast also did nicely.
Camera work was good, while sets and backgrounds were amazing. Depth of backgrounds and sets were very good with great attention to detail. Costuming was extensive and very well done throughout the film. Action and effects were fitting, exciting, and also added a level of depth to the film. Dialogue was enjoyable having a good mix of comedy and drama. Sound and soundtrack were extremely enjoyable.
Overall Amadeus is a film with a good storyline and entertaining mix of unusual variables. Those who enjoy the music, or overly done production presentations will likely enjoy this quite a bit while others may find the film a bit chaotic.
With some sexuality and mild violence, this should be fine for teens and above.
Released: 1984
Reviewed: 11.4.12
Star rating: 3 out of 5
copyright ©2012 Dave Riedel
Remember to click on Subscribe and leave comments!
Comments