Review of Whiplash (2014) by Bhbarry — 09 Oct 2014

"Whiplash" stars J.K. Simmons and Miles Teller in this story of a would be jazz drummer and his over zealous teacher/conductor in an elite and upscale music conservatory. Written and directed by Damien Chazille, this is a film that will appeal to lovers of jazz as it represents some of the best musical renditions ever seen on the movie screen.

It is also a film that raises the question as to how far a teacher should go to "bring out the best" in his or her student. Messrs. Simmons and Teller are superb in the roles they play as they participate in some of the most intense student/teacher scenes one will ever see.

Adding to their credibilty, we find out that in real life Mr. Teller studied drums from age 15 and Mr. Simmons holds degrees in voice, conducting and music from the University of Montana. As a result it’s easy to understand the believability of their respective performances.

Having myself played in studio bands under the stewardship of a number of quality professors, the film had a special meaning for me. But, alas, this is what may make this really good film a commercial mishap since it is not for everyone and, by its very subject matter, may exclude a significant part of the viewing public.

I give the film a 9.0 because, seen out of context and apart from other films, it stands out as a true work of art. The caveat here, though, is that if intense musicology, training and signficant jazz performances are not the viewer’s "thing", then this film will not be appreciated by him or her to the same extent as it was by me.