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Whiplash (2014)

Whiplash (2014)

Intense drama centering in on the agony of a young jazz drummer at an elite music school.

The Very Best

8.9

Movie

United States of America
English
Drama, Music
2014
DAMIEN CHAZELLE
Adrian Burks, April Grace, Austin Stowell
107 min

What it's about

Under the direction of a ruthless instructor, a talented young drummer begins to pursue perfection at any cost, even his humanity.

The take

Miles Teller plays Andrew Nieman, an ambitious young jazz drummer striving for greatness, who is edged towards breaking point by the sadism of his teacher and conductor, Terence Fletcher, played expertly by J.K. Simmons. Fletcher insults him, pressures him, and makes him cry in front of all his peers. Directed by Damien Chazelle, who was one of the youngest people to receive a Golden Globe and an Academy Award for the powerful La La Land, the aptly titled Whiplash poses some intense questions about artistry and ambition. Will Andrew survive? Will it lift him to a higher artistic level? Can his tormentor be appeased through accomplishment? It's almost impossible to single out the best part of this film, considering the flawless performances, masterful script, and meticulously crafted soundtrack. Cherishing the existential artist without giving easy answers, Whiplash is an inspiring watch.

Comments

An ideal of a young music student is a tyrant. The tyrannical relationship is at the heart of this movie. Terrific Performances. It will move you and cheer you and slowly waltz its way into the darker effects of the choices we make while chasing the brass rings.

I’m dating a drummer right now, so this felt like requiered viewing. It is such a damn good movie, no matter whether you are dating a close to 7 feet tall musician you want to impress or not. Simmons is a force, Miles Teller is surprisingly good. The pace of this movie is so satisfying. Love, love, love.

You’ll only watch this movie once. However, you won’t forget it. Great actors acting greatly!

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