Amadeus (1984)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Amadeus is a period drama film directed by Miloš Forman and written by Peter Shaffer, adapted from his stage play of the same name. The film is a fictionalized biography of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, narrated by his supposed rival, Antonio Salieri. Set in Vienna, Austria, during the latter half of the 18th century, the film explores themes of genius, jealousy, and the cost of artistic excellence.

The Plot Unfolds

Antonio Salieri’s Confession

The film opens in 1823 with an elderly Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham) attempting suicide, claiming to have murdered Mozart (Tom Hulce). He is taken to an asylum, where he confesses his story to a young priest, Father Vogler (Richard Frank). The narrative then shifts to a series of flashbacks.

Mozart’s Arrival in Vienna

Mozart arrives in Vienna and immediately disrupts the formal court of Emperor Joseph II (Jeffrey Jones) with his unconventional behavior. Despite his childish demeanor, Mozart’s prodigious talent becomes evident, earning both admiration and envy from the court musicians, particularly Salieri.

Salieri’s Envy and Deception

Salieri, a devout man who believes his musical talent is a gift from God, becomes consumed with jealousy upon recognizing Mozart’s genius. Unable to reconcile his faith with his envy, Salieri embarks on a campaign to undermine Mozart while maintaining a facade of friendship. He secretly plots to sabotage Mozart’s career and personal life.

Mozart’s Struggles and Decline

Mozart faces numerous hardships, including financial struggles, the death of his father Leopold (Roy Dotrice), and declining health. He becomes increasingly dependent on alcohol and overworks himself, leading to his deteriorating condition. Salieri capitalizes on Mozart’s vulnerabilities, commissioning a requiem mass that he plans to claim as his own work after Mozart’s death.

The Requiem and Mozart’s Death

Mozart, unaware of Salieri’s true intentions, works obsessively on the requiem. Salieri helps Mozart in his final days, transcribing the music as Mozart dictates it from his deathbed. Despite their collaboration, Mozart dies penniless and is buried in a pauper’s grave, leaving the requiem unfinished.

Salieri’s Ultimate Realization

The film concludes with Salieri’s realization that despite his efforts, Mozart’s legacy and genius endure, while he remains forgotten and tormented by his mediocrity. Salieri absolves the other patients in the asylum, dubbing himself the “patron saint of mediocrity.”

Movie Ending

The film ends with Salieri acknowledging Mozart’s everlasting legacy, juxtaposed with his own descent into obscurity. The haunting final scene underscores the tragic irony of Salieri’s life: despite his successful sabotage, Mozart’s genius remains untarnished.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Amadeus.

Type of Movie

Amadeus is a biographical period drama that combines elements of historical fiction, musical, and psychological thriller.

Cast

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

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score primarily features compositions by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, with some pieces by Antonio Salieri and other contemporaries. The music was conducted by Sir Neville Marriner and performed by the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, providing an authentic and immersive soundtrack.

Filming Locations

Amadeus was filmed on location in Prague, Czech Republic, and Kroměříž, Czech Republic, which stood in for 18th-century Vienna. The use of historical locations added to the film’s authenticity and visual grandeur.

Awards and Nominations

Amadeus received numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Academy Awards: Won Best Picture, Best Director (Miloš Forman), Best Actor (F. Murray Abraham), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Makeup, and Best Sound. Nominated for Best Actor (Tom Hulce), Best Cinematography, and Best Film Editing.
• Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, and Best Actor (F. Murray Abraham).
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Film, Best Direction, and Best Cinematography.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• F. Murray Abraham and Tom Hulce underwent extensive preparation to portray Salieri and Mozart, respectively, including learning to mimic playing the piano convincingly.
• The film’s production faced challenges, such as recreating authentic 18th-century settings and costumes, which were meticulously designed to reflect the period accurately.
• Director Miloš Forman insisted on using natural light for interior scenes to enhance the film’s authenticity.

Inspirations and References

The film is based on Peter Shaffer’s play, which in turn was inspired by the rumored rivalry between Mozart and Salieri. Though historically inaccurate, the story uses artistic license to explore deeper themes of genius, jealousy, and the human condition.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Amadeus closely follows Shaffer’s original play. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.

Book Adaptations and Differences

While the film closely follows the play, it expands on certain scenes and character interactions to enhance the cinematic experience. The core themes and narrative structure remain faithful to Shaffer’s work.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Mozart’s first performance at the court of Emperor Joseph II.
• The scene where Salieri burns a crucifix, renouncing God.
• The intense dictation of the requiem on Mozart’s deathbed.
• Salieri’s final monologue in the asylum, absolving the patients.

Iconic Quotes

• “I was staring through the cage of those meticulous ink strokes at an absolute beauty.” – Antonio Salieri
• “All men are equal in God’s eyes. But are they equal in mine?” – Antonio Salieri
• “I am the patron saint of mediocrity.” – Antonio Salieri

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film’s attention to historical detail is evident in the costumes and set designs, which accurately reflect 18th-century Vienna.
• Several of Mozart’s operas are performed throughout the film, highlighting his diverse body of work and the evolution of his musical genius.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was around $18 million, and it grossed over $90 million worldwide.
• F. Murray Abraham’s portrayal of Salieri earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, solidifying his career.
• The real Antonio Salieri and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart were not known to have had a bitter rivalry, and the story is largely fictionalized for dramatic effect.

Why Watch?

Amadeus is a masterful blend of drama, music, and historical fiction, offering a compelling narrative and stunning visuals. Its exploration of the complexities of genius and mediocrity, combined with powerful performances and an unforgettable score, makes it a must-watch for fans of cinema and classical music.

Director’s Other Movies

Miloš Forman also directed:

• One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
• Man on the Moon (1999)
• The People vs. Larry Flynt (1996)
• Hair (1979)

Recommended Films for Fans

• One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
• The Pianist (2002)
• Shine (1996)
• Immortal Beloved (1994)
• Mozart’s Sister (2010)

Amadeus is a timeless classic that beautifully explores the life of one of history’s greatest composers, delving into the complexities of human ambition and envy. The film’s captivating visuals and insightful storytelling have earned it lasting acclaim, cementing its place as a cinematic masterpiece.