Amadeus - Draft

Film

Amadeus

In this scene the cinematography is used in many different ways to great effect. When the camera focuses on Mozart conducting, the shot type is a medium/wide shot, this puts him at the centre. In this particular shot everything around Mozart is symmetrical such as the two candles, which frame him on either side. This along with the low angle shot gives the impression that he is a priest before a congregation. This emphasises the thoughts that Salieri has, thinking that God is speaking through him. The candles also connote that god is helping Mozart with his music. Also when the present Salieri talks about “the sound of forgiveness was filling the room” the camera pans in towards the stage, this gives a sense of awe, which is felt by those watching. In the shot where the present Salieri is speaking he says, “My defeat was getting close…” As he says this, the camera is tracking into him making it seem as though the world is closing in on him. However when the present Salieri talks about how his defeat became a victory the camera pans away giving him space. This gives the feeling of relief that Salieri is feeling.

Lighting is also used to great effect in this scene. The warm, high-key lighting used gives the impression that Mozart and his work is a force of good. It also seems to be a ‘heavenly light’, which enforces the idea of Mozart having a go-like force helping him. However the shadows that surround Salieri and his friends connotes that they are, as people, consumed by darkness and treachery.

Mise-en-scene is also used to great effect in this scene. The costumes are used to great effect as the costumes of Mozart is wearing white which connotes goodness and holiness, whereas Salieri and his friends are all wearing dark colours which connotes that they have ulterior motives and that they may also have dark personalities.

Sound is also used to great effect.