Amadeus Drama Explores Mozart and Salieri Rumors

No music biopic comes close to Milos Forman's 1984 masterpiece, Amadeus. Adapted by Peter Shaffer from his own 1979 stage play, the film is based on a wild rumour: that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was driven to an early grave by the obsessively jealous court composer Antonio Salieri.

Now, Sky has produced a new five-part adaptation of Shaffer's play, reuniting key players from the crime series Giri/Haji, including writer Joe Barton, director Julian Farino, and Bafta-winning actor Will Sharpe.

Paul Bettany plays Salieri, while Sharpe portrays Mozart. The series aims to explore the domestic lives of these historical figures, including a more prominent role for Mozart's wife, Constanze, played by Gabrielle Creevy.

Barton emphasizes the importance of showcasing Constanze as more than just Mozart's wife, highlighting her struggles and contributions to preserving his music. Sharpe's interpretation of Mozart is less flamboyant than Tom Hulce's portrayal in the 1984 film, focusing on a more grounded, virile character who is oblivious to Salieri's jealousy.

The adaptation acknowledges the fictional elements of the original narrative, noting that Mozart was devout and Salieri was a respected composer with a happy family life. The series also examines how art shapes society and the burdens of genius, paralleling contemporary issues in the creative landscape.

Amadeus will be available on Sky and NOW starting December 21.