Review of Whiplash

Whiplash is simply outstanding. The performances are incredible and the direction and writing are stellar. Whiplash is the story of a boy that to trying to fulfill his dream of being the one of best jazz drummers of all time . On paper that does not sound that great but when you peel away the layers of Whiplash you see that it is a story of the lengths and sacrifices that one will endure for achieve their goal.

The film star Miles Teller (The Spectacular Now and Project X) who plays Andrew Neyman, a freshman at the fictional Shaffer Conservatory of Music. His goal is to be the best jazz drummer there is, much like his musical idol Buddy Rich. He is socially awkward and focuses on only his goal. Allowing himself to go to any extreme to reach his goal. Teller gives us a character that wants to be the best and prove to those around him that what he is doing is important. He is pushed to the edge of madness by is teacher and mentor Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons). Looking for approval, Teller’s character keeps pushing himself to the breaking point. Teller gives an outstanding performance. This is by far the best he has ever been.

The other star of the film is J.K. Simmons (Juno and Spider-man). He plays a character that is abusive and willing to do whatever he can to win. His character feels that pushing someone is the only way to get them to their true potential. This however is done though the abuse of his students verbally, physically and mentally. What makes this character great is the way that Simmons plays him. He sees nothing wrong in what he is doing and he sees himself as helping his students. This is truly what makes a great villain. They do not see themselves as being or acting badly but that what they are doing is for the greater good. Simmons shows us flashes of his performance on the television show Oz. In that show and in Whiplash, he gives a memorable character that will be talked about for years to come.

Whiplash is directed and written wonderfully by Damien Chazelle. His story is a cautionary tale to any one that becomes obsessed with a goal. Normally you would see this type of story with a sports back drop, but Chazelle shows us that the need to win and be the best, can be seen in any corner of our society. The question that he seems to ask us is how far you would go to reach your true potential. Sometimes people will go to any extreme to be the best, but this can leave a hollow shell of what they once were.

Go see Whiplash. It is a great film with some of the best performances of the year. Both Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons should be nominated for an Oscar. Also Damien Chazelle should get some kind recognition for the wonderful story he has brought to us. I give Whiplash 4.25 out 5.

Please comment and let me know if you have seen Whiplash or what you thought of my review.