I used to detest this movie. It's the complete opposite of the types of movies that got me into film - small, raw, no-budget, dirty, run-and-gun indies. In fact, I still tend to steer clear of most movies that have that Oscar-bait air to them (i.e. English period pieces).

While I have not gained any interest in costume dramas over the last 20 years, I can now at least appreciate the artistry that went into the production design of this film, as well as the sheer volume of costumes and sets that were made. There's no doubt about it, the money is all up there on the screen.

I also now really appreciate the fact that no one was allowed to put on a fake accent. Good call, Milos!

But I still think F. Murray Abraham's performance is ridiculous. Tom Hulce is excused because Mozart was annoying and childish in real life, and being that the film is from Salieri's perspective those traits should be magnified. But Abraham is allowed to chew the fuck out of all that gorgeous scenery. That scene where Salieri realizes Mozart's sole drafts contain no edits or corrections has me eyeing the remote every goddamn time I have to sit through it.