Amadeus

It's true that geniuses are born, not made. This conception is very much apt for Mozart. Amadeus largely brings to light the greatness of the musical genius, Mozart. The depictions that justify Mozart's genius are –

1.    At a very young age, Mozart was shown playing in front of the Pope in Rome.

2.    It was said that Mozart had written his first concerto at the age of 4, his first symphony at the age of 7 and his first opera at the age of 12.

3.    Mozart was able to play Antonio Salieri’s “March of Welcome” just by listening it once. He even went about improvising the piece which Salieri had managed to compose with immense labor.

4.    Even on his death bed, Mozart was dictating detailed musical compositions to Salieri.

Despite having talent of the highest degree, Mozart's character did have certain grey shades to it. He was completely aware of the ability he possessed, which made him very arrogant. Mozart was shown very “ruthless” to other composers; something which is clearly evident by how he mocked every composer's musical style in the movie. This proves that the character of Mozart did not regard anyone else’s talent due to the feeling of superiority he possessed. "A little modesty might suit you better" Chamberlain had said to Mozart, an advice that was very apt to his character.

Mozart was highly sensitive about his art. He didn't like the emperor and his men toying with his creations. Mozart dedication towards his talent made him neglect his responsibilities. The dedication with which he focused on his primary interest made him blind to the negligence he had towards his family. Mozart not only placed his talent at an elevated standard, but also wasn't grounded to the reality of his own life. His ego prevented him to have a pupil who's family didn't give his art due respect. Mozart did not understand the value of money in life; he weighed his pride and ego more than it.

Amadeus as a movie definitely leaves you with an insight about the psyches of creative individuals and the superiority with which they start regarding themselves. It can rightly be concluded that with great artistic abilities comes a bloated ego. The movie does not let any melodrama or emotions pose a distraction to the narration. The movie shows glimpses of humor, with Mozart’s high pitched laugh that can be considered as a response to the world that did not understand his art. The story progression tends to slow down in the middle, but does provide a suitable detailing to the entire story.

In the end one comes to realize that the life of a genius is not a walk in the park. Geniuses like Mozart constantly stumble to the worldly shunning, with people exploiting their talent and their enviers targeting their success. It’s sad the tragic end that many geniuses like Mozart have suffered. Maybe truly gifted beings are like sparks that display brilliance as long as they last, but very soon they depart, leaving an entire world mesmerized.