Review of Whiplash (2014) by Evan W — 02 Oct 2017

Independent films have grown increasingly popular as of late. 2014 was filled with these types of movies that seemingly came out of nowhere, and "Whiplash" was one of the frontrunners.

Miles Teller plays Andrew Neiman, an aspiring jazz drummer attending Shaffer Conservatory in New York City. Terence Fletcher, played by J.K. Simmons, is a well-respected instructor at the university who takes notice of Neiman and recruits him for his studio band. Neiman's excitement to join the band is short-lived, however, as Fletcher's brutal methods of teaching prove immensely taxing, physically and emotionally.

Throughout the film, it is difficult to tell if Fletcher is a protagonist or antagonist. Do his methods truly better his students or is he just trying to find his own Buddy Rich? Where does an instructor draw the line? Is being one of the greats worth losing one's humanity?

Neiman desires to be great, and this is shown in his decision-making throughout the film. His passion allows him to endure Fletcher's physical and emotional abuse, and the battle of wits that ensues between the two actors is where the movie shines.

Damien Chazelle's writing and direction fuels the intensity of the performances. Chazelle himself struggled to make it as a jazz drummer in high school, and he even had an intense music instructor who inspired the character of Terence Fletcher. His musical experience is evident in the script, and the quality of the jazz music is no doubt a testament to Chazelle's guiding hand in the production.

The music itself is captivating, and Fletcher's ferocious conducting is not only the product of good acting. Simmons graduated with a music degree from the University of Montana, where he minored in composition and conducting.

Teller also possessed some experience in rock drumming tracing back to his teen years. Rock drumming and jazz drumming are two different monsters, however, and for two months Teller trained three to four hours each day under professional drummer Nate Lang in preparation for his role. Because of his hard work, Teller was able to actually play, in portions, the difficult pieces Neiman performs in the film. However, the fluidity and intensity of Neiman's drumming is more of a testament to Tom Cross' editing.

The last 30 minutes of this film will have viewers' eyes locked onto the drama; it is one of the most emotionally gripping finales I have ever seen.

"Whiplash" is an impressive feat by 30-year-old Damien Chazelle, winning three Oscars including the well-deserved Best Supporting Actor recognition awarded to J.K. Simmons. It is a fast-paced, full-throttled drama that will have viewers on the edge of their seat until the last drum stroke.