Amadeus (Director's Cut) MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +3 Content: -1

Set in the 18th century, dying composer Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham), confined to a mental hospital for his last years, narrates the story of Austrian composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Tom Hulce). Salieri, a mediocre composer, has allowed jealousy of the brilliant musician to consume his life. Seen through Salieris eyes, Mozart is presented as spoiled and childish, with obnoxious arrogance and crude behavior. Ironically, Salieris mediocrity provides him a comfortable position in the kings palace, while the acclaimed Mozart can barely support his wife and child. The talented Mozart dies before his 36th birthday and is buried in a paupers grave. Robbed of his jealous focus, Salieri dies as an old man, still seeking forgiveness for his betrayal of the young genius. AMADEUS won eight Oscars, including best picture in 1984. This restored directors cut, re-released in select theaters across the country, adds 20 additional minutes to the original footage, pushing the viewing time over three hours. Much too intense for young teens, but for mature viewers and classical music lovers, AMADEUS is well worth the time and ticket price.

Salieri prays, Lord, make me a great composer, thinking himself so much more deserving than the immature, foolish genius. When that doesnt work, the tormented Salieri denounces God by burning a crucifix and plots to kill Mozart. Unfortunately, Mozart has few redeeming qualities other than his exceptional musical talent. A womanizer and a drunk, he spouts out vulgar language and squanders money. His desperate wife humiliates herself by baring her breasts and offering sexual favors in return for a position for her husband. Originally rated PG, the agonizing death of Mozart, his paupers burial, and the films adult subject matter, are especially inappropriate for children. This directors cut earns an R rating from the MPAA, based on sexually suggestive content, nudity and a few obscenities.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Warner Bros., 4000 Warner Blvd., Burbank, CA 91522