Review of Amadeus (1984) by Shane S — 19 Oct 2010

One of the most powerful films ever made, Milos Forman's musical epic about one of the greatest (not to mention rebellious) composers of all time is a powerful drama whose greatest moments lie within the silent moments where everything seems to be very serene. The music, along with selections from two very exceptional composers, helps punctuate the film and give it its impact that it otherwise would not have had.

The film, according to pop culture, is supposed to be about the mostly fictional "rivalry" between Mozart (Tom Hulce in his first major film role) and Mozart's #1 fanboy, Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham in the role that became him), but to me, I see it as the clash between genuine, heartfelt music and standard popular tunes. Salieri, while a very influential composer, is basically a musician for the people, whose choppy rhythms and conventions appealed to them more than the rebellious, progressive (sometimes transgressive) nature of Mozart's compositions. The fact that Mozart was not respected by the people until he wrote what he considered a "vaudeville" in his final years adds weight to that,.

Great acting, great parallels, an outstanding (not to mention occasionally hilarious) script by Peter Shaffer, and some of the best direction I have seen on behalf of Forman (who's made some great films, like "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest", "Man on the Moon", "The People vs. Larry Flynt", and "Ragtime"). His study of the clash between the commercial and the genuine proves to be a success to this day.