Amadeus 4K Release: Why Not Include Both Versions?
I completely understand why Warner Bros. chose to release the theatrical cut of Amadeus on 4K—it makes sense from a historical and marketing perspective. That version has been out of circulation for years, and for many, it’s the version they originally fell in love with. However, if they’re going through all this effort to restore and release the film in 4K, why not take the extra step to include both versions and make everyone happy?
The debate over which version is better—director’s cut vs. theatrical—is something film fans could argue about endlessly. Both cuts have their merits, and personal preference will always play a role. But from a film preservation standpoint, it feels like the wrong approach. When studios pick and choose which cuts to acknowledge, it sets a frustrating precedent for how films are preserved and presented to future audiences.
Would it have been that difficult to offer both versions in the same release? Plenty of other classic films have received this kind of treatment, and it’s always a win for cinephiles. At the very least, the option would show respect for the film’s history and the different ways audiences have experienced it over the years.
What do you all think? Would you have preferred a dual-version release, or do you think Warner Bros. made the right call?
