Amadeus (1984)
The Mozart effect applies to movies too.
Presentation:
This is one of the best music films because it is not only gorgeous but has an engrossing story as well. But as other films in this genre primarily focus on other dramatic elements, this one never loses focus on the music. It’s always about the pursuit, creation, love, struggle and composition that makes it actually a music film. The presentation is also impeccable with immersive sets and costumes for those that love period pieces. You have the powdered wigs and debauchery of films like Barry Lyndon and The Favourite, but there is a bit of disconnect as it takes itself more seriously, which could make it less welcoming for mainstream audiences. Mozart and Salieri’s relationship on screen are still really fun to watch, even if it’s fabricated.
Conclusion:
As a film, this is a really entertaining and dramatic story with great music of a famous classical composer. As a biography, it’s quite pointless as the writers take far too many creative liberties. But if you can ignore the realities and want to immerse yourself in a music epic with tantalizing costumes, it could be considered the best music film of all time.
Recommendations
When you’re even more Andersson than Wes Anderson.