Classy musical account of Mozart makes a remarkable stage play.

Rating: 8/10 (21 March 1999)

AMADEUS lives up to its wholesome beauty by paying tribute to classic musicals that are all but gone. Milos Foreman must have survived this massive undertaking in earning another batch of golden Oscars. The sound of classical music is rich and lively enough to consider this true to art. Seriously, folks, it does come up a wee short from being an authentic masterpiece, but it does translate as a satisfying and amusing stage play filled with lavish sets and costumes. It's only the movies, really.
Leonard Maltin's Movie & Video Guide described this as "fatally overlong". If you're casual enough to belong in the martini crowd or just like going out to see operas, then chances are your time is going to be spent perfectly well. And yes, even the entire family will like this one, despite getting a little crude on occasion. Unlike THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION (that one was great, but it just seemed too long), it is fully satisfying and the talented stage performances make this one to appreciate. We should also examine Mozart's life and love of music, which bodes strongly for a lengthy picture. The film's total magic is in the directing talents of Milos Foreman.
AMADEUS is a wondrous spectacle of harmony and ambition from centuries ago, and like I said before, it isn't an all-out cinematic masterpiece. While not for those who lack interest in classical music, it is a hungry feast for some. Hey, I may not be a fan of public television, so why waste some pledge money when this movie sticks to your mind in years to come.