First Full Look at Sky's Amadeus Adaptation
Sky has released the first full-length trailer for its highly anticipated five-part drama series, Amadeus, giving audiences a complete preview of the forthcoming adaptation. The series, scheduled to premiere on Sunday, 21st December, reimagines Peter Shaffer's celebrated stage play about the legendary rivalry between composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri.
A Contemporary Take on a Classic Rivalry
This new interpretation comes from writer Joe Barton, known for Giri/Haji and Black Doves, who has given the classic story a contemporary makeover. The cast features Will Sharpe from The White Lotus in the role of the brilliant young Mozart, while Paul Bettany of the Marvel Cinematic Universe portrays his rival, the court composer Salieri.
The minute-and-a-half-long trailer showcases spectacular new footage, chronicling the fierce professional competition that turns into a deeply personal obsession. The story begins when the 25-year-old Mozart arrives in 18th-century Vienna, craving creative freedom away from his child prodigy past.
An official synopsis reveals that his world collides with two key figures: his fiercely loyal future wife, Constanze Weber, played by BBC's In My Skin star Gabrielle Creevy, and the devoutly religious Salieri. As Mozart's genius flourishes despite his personal demons and questionable reputation, Salieri becomes tormented by this divine gift, viewing Amadeus as a threat to his talent, reputation, and faith.
Fan Reaction: A Divided Audience
Despite the series' impressive credentials, including a supporting cast with Rory Kinnear, Lucy Cohu, Jonathan Aris, and Jessica Alexander, the new adaptation has already ignited a fierce debate online. Many fans are questioning the necessity of remaking the 1984 Oscar-winning film, which they consider a masterpiece.
One social media user expressed a common sentiment, stating, "The original Amadeus is a masterpiece. You simply cannot beat F. Murray Abraham as Salieri. Why do studios insist on remaking perfection?"
Another concurred, calling it "the most unnecessary remake of all time," while a third commenter noted, "There is not a single frame of this trailer that makes me believe this is needed when we have Amadeus (1984)." However, not all reactions were negative; some viewers remain open to the new version, with one YouTube commenter admitting, "I think it's unbeatable... But I'll take a look at it."
The series promises to explore this tumultuous relationship spanning three decades, culminating in a murder confession and Salieri's desperate attempt to secure his own legacy by entwining it with Mozart's forever. The question remains: will audiences tune in for this fresh interpretation or remain loyal to the original classic?
