Amadeus (1984)

Introduced by Dr Gray Atherton, Lecturer in Psychology, University of Plymouth

The life, success and troubles of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as told by Antonio Salieri, the contemporaneous composer who was deeply jealous of Mozart's talent and claimed to have murdered him. Mozart finds a fierce rival in the disciplined and determined Antonio Salieri (Oscar-winning F. Murray Abraham). Resenting Mozart for both his hedonistic lifestyle and his undeniable talent, the highly religious Salieri is gradually consumed by his jealousy and becomes obsessed with Mozart's downfall, leading to a devious scheme that has dire consequences for both men. Underpinning all of this is a myth-like narrative of ambition, obsession and searing jealousy, written by the brilliant Peter Shaffer.

Dir. Milos Forman, US, 1984, 173 mins.

Cast. Tom Hulce, F. Murray Abraham, Simon Callow, Christine Ebersole.

Celluloid Psychology was devised by Dr. Alastair Smith, School of Psychology as an antidote to the usual depictions of psychology on our screens.

Gray Atherton is a lecturer in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health, and her research focuses on autism, neurodiverse strengths, and strategies to improve wellbeing in special populations. To introduce Amadeus Gray will be discussing historical interpretations of autism as well as musicality and musical appreciation in those on the spectrum.

Image credit: Amadeus (1984)

Host or Publisher The Arts Institute