A new period drama based on an Oscar-winning film of the same name has finally landed on Sky, with critics and viewers alike sharing their first impressions of the limited series.

Amadeus, which is a reimagining of the rise and fall of one of history’s most famous composers, comes 40 years after Miloš Forman’s 1984 film, which fans have branded “a masterpiece”.

The new 2025 reimagining of the life of Wolfgang ‘Amadeus’ Mozart stars The White Lotus actor Will Sharpe in the titular role, while Marvel icon Paul Bettany appears as envious court composer Antonio Salieri.

The show is based on Peter Shaffer’s award-winning stage play, which also served as the source material for the film, and adapted by Black Doves’ Joe Barton.

Following the release of the new historical drama, critics have been sharing their thoughts, with the majority giving it favourable reviews.

iNews said: “The famous rivalry between Mozart and Salieri is an arch, wry romp in this adaptation of Peter Shaffer’s play.”

Digital Spy commented: “Amadeus is an intriguing, sometimes very special show that falls just shy of the greatness that was once thrust upon the real Amadeus himself.”

“The tone is saucy, not stuffy,” The Age remarked, while The Financial Times offered: “This is a muscular drama, and a lot of fun, as it carouses its way through big and aptly operatic themes.”

The London Evening Standard added: “It’s all about great characters, pulpy action – plenty of sex and jokes and set-pieces – and a fast pace that makes you devour the whole thing in a day or two.”

Meanwhile, The Guardian was less than impressed, writing: “Shaffer’s driving interests in the corrupting power of envy, the survival of religious faith under duress, the mystery of talent and what we expect to come from genius are mostly reduced to pale, petty versions of themselves.”

The Irish Independent agreed that the show left something to be desired, critiquing: “It’s a solid drama with solid performances by Will Sharpe as Mozart and Paul Bettany as Salieri, but nothing more than that.”

Over on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, fans have been sharing praise for the original 1984 adaptation of Peter Shaffer’s work.

“The original film was a masterpiece that lives on,” one fan wrote, as another agreed: “Amadeus must be one of the greatest films ever. The production, the performances and the music, my GOD the music. Whether the story is accurate or not… the MUSIC. Unsurpassed. Unsurpassable.”

Another viewer reflected: “Now this is what I would call a masterpiece #AMADEUS (1984)!

Absolutely riveting. Performances were amazing and moving and tragic at the end. Definitely in my favourite movies of all time list. Check it out.”

One more account described the film as a “timeless masterpiece”, as another person agreed: “Compelling plot, visually stunning and musically blessed. This movie is a masterpiece.”

The limited series Amadeus is available to watch on Sky Atlantic and NOW.

SOURCE: EXPRESS