Review of Whiplash (2014) by Nicholasbert — 15 Jan 2015

How is it that 3 million dollars are converted into Whiplash, and yet it takes 220 to produce Avengers? This film is definitive proof that you don't need big names (although Miles Teller and JK Simmons kind of are) to get big performances - and that it doesn't all come down to production design and CGI and expensive shots to make a good movie.

Accompanied by a humble, warmly-lit cinematography, Whiplash has all it takes to be one of the defining music films so far, thanks mainly to the cast and the script. The plot halts on issues of teacher-student relationships and the importance of commitment, but the open ending suggests that might not be enough still - in substance, there is no "perfection" ever, but you have to try.

It's the inspiring yet abusive JK Simmons, with his somewhat witty insults and tight black T-shirt who makes the cut. Falling from heaven, repentance and redemption are all there. Watch it.