I got to say I was WOWed and I am not even a jazz fan but the performance and the intensity of the movie got to me through every single step of the way. I wanted to reach out and strangle Simmons for the most part of the movie for his EPIC performance, which IMHO should really snag that best supporting actor award this year..
Last but definitely not least Mr. Miles Teller, allow me to tip my hat for the 27 year old actor who throughout most of his performance I simply could not keep up with his hand speed while he was holding those drumsticks!!! Amazing!
However, his real epic-ness did not drive from his musical performance which do not get me wrong here was simply awesome.. It was from his struggle, you could feel his need, his thirst for getting what he wanted to boarder line obsession and self harm, that made me feel his character in every step of the way.. Really, BRAVO!
Whiplash received critical acclaim upon its première on the opening night of the 2014 Sundance Film Festival.
The film has a "certified fresh" score of 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 234 reviews, with an average rating of 8.6 out of 10.
The critical consensus states, "Intense, inspiring, and well-acted, Whiplash is a brilliant sophomore effort from director Damien Chazelle and a riveting vehicle for stars J. K. Simmons and Miles Teller."
The film also has a score of 88 out of 100 on Metacritic based on 49 critics, indicating "critical acclaim"
Peter Debruge, in his review for Variety, said that the film "Demolishes the clichés of the musical-prodigy genre, investing the traditionally polite stages and rehearsal studios of a top-notch conservatory with all the psychological intensity of a battlefield or sports arena."
Easily one of the best movies ever made! Have watched over 6 times and still cant say no to watch it again!
Claustrophobically shot with some knock out performances from Simmons and Teller, Whiplash is an anxiety/dread filled look at the journey to greatness, while questioning where the boundaries should lie while striving for success. A rollercoaster of emotions that continues to twist until it's final moments, just don't forget to breathe. Absolutely fantastic movie.
I think it's pretty safe to say that this is the only movie about Jazz Drumming you actually have to watch.
This felt like a mix of Karate Kid and Days of Thunder with drums. Yes, Simmons played great, don´t know about Teller, though. Either way I found both characters quite unlikeable. And oftentimes the music doesn´t fit the actual playing on screen.
Not my kind of movie.
Loved the movie.
Whiplash tells a great story, a sad one too.
Andrew Neiman is drummer who aspires greatness and is fished by Terence Fletcher a renown teacher in New York.
While everything looks like a dream come true, not everything is as it seems.
My opinion:
Even though I loved the movie I have to take this out of my chest.
Fletcher is a sociopathic narcissistic SOB that exploits the physical and psychological strength his students in the name of success.
I hated the fact that Fletcher exploited his students and controlled them so 'well'. I hated the fact that Andrew searched for Fletcher's approval every chance he had. And even at the end, when he could have just ended his solo (which was awesome btw), and walked away proving his point. But no, Fletcher had Neiman so rilled in that the kid wanted is approval despite all events that happened before.
The story of pushing someone to their limits and if they give up and walk way, meaning they were not meant for success is completely BS. There are times to say 'good job' is a good thing, and there are others where pushing is a good thing, the secret is knowing both.
Worth one watch. Fletcher was a little too intense sometimes - it was becoming a parody character. The violence and blood obviously looks intense but I found it a bit silly and hardcore for the sake of it. Even though I didn't care much for the Rocky movie of drumming, I thought it was well made. The acting was good.
I have just one word for this movie "Masterpiece"
I don't usually enjoy or even watch this kind of movies, but wow this is something else. A solid 10 from me.
Great performances by everyone. This one keeps you glued on to your seat. The ending is really good too, a type of scene I haven't seen in movies in quite some time.
Had heard this was good, but wow. Mesmerizing. Kept putting this movie off, and regret it now. Amazing acting, dialogue and drama, with a great conclusion. The intensity had me literally holding on to my seat.
"There are no two words in the English language more harmful than good job".
Whiplash follows are main character Andrew Neyman who is a young jazz drummer, single-minded in his pursuit to rise to the top of his elite east coast music conservatory. Plagued by the failed writing career of his father, Andrew hungers day and night to become one of the greats. Terence Fletcher, an instructor equally known for his teaching talents as for his terrifying methods, leads the top jazz ensemble in the school. Fletcher discovers Andrew and transfers the aspiring drummer into his band, forever changing the young man's life.
OK let me just start off with this. You had no idea how much I was really looking forward to Whiplash. This was on my movies to check out list, because I heard nothing but positive things from this movie and I heard a lot of people described this film has the "Full Metal Jacket" but with no war or guns, but with music and well... drums. I think Whiplash and "Birdman" was the two movies I wanted to see before making my best movies of the year list, because who knows they might make the list. I haven't seen "Birdman" yet but will do soon, but I finally had the chance to see Whiplash and my god this movie was just so spectacularly flawless in many ways. Whiplash is the best move of 2014.
J.K. Simmons in this movie probably pulls of the best performance in his career. Every word that came out of his mouth didn't feel like he was reading from the script then act it out. I felt every angry punch of words that came out of him, because it was so real. I didn't see J.K. Simmons just playing a movie character in this movie, no he was the freaking Fletcher.
Now let's talk about Terence Fletcher: The best way to describe Fletcher to those who haven't seen the film yet, well his like Sgt. Hartman from "Full Metal Jacket". When he's on screen your locked on and he's also the kind of person that would be somebody's worse nightmare to have for a boss. This guy doesn't just like music, he breaths music and he wants his band to do perfect. His opinion and his look on music is another thing why I didn't flat out just hated him, I actually understood him. He made a very good point about how people will comment on you act and say "You did a good job", and yes I did use the words "you did a great job", in my past reviews but now I'm never going to use it ever again after this movie.
Miles Teller was another stand out performances in this movie, and just like "Foxcatacher" where Channing Tatum was so over looked by his performance, well Miles Teller has proved himself to be more then a teen in a movie that will be forgotten and so would he, but no Miles Teller played this character so brilliantly he could become the next big thing. Now his character in this movie has the love of the true art of music and you can see that he wants to tell people his love for music, but when the harsh life of reality comes crashing into him it's truly heartbreaking to see his struggle and effort just not being good enough. Teller played this character so realistic and so brilliantly flawless.
The directing and the writing in this was just....perfect. Damien Chazelle gave this movie style and passion to tell a story about two strong music buffs battling out and he freaking nailed it.
This movie also had probably the best finale that I've seen in years. My nails were digging into the seat. I didn't dare to look away not for one moment, not for one second. I was simply locked on and when it was over... I'm kidding you I actually clapped towards the end of this movie. Now the biggest cliche that I always hear from critics when their talk about a different movies and their use words like "You will clap at the end", but you don't, or "You will feel inspired after the film", and I you don't. But Whiplash actually did make me feel inspirited towards the end and made me clap. It's message of not giving up and the dream that you been chancing for isn't just going to come to you. Movies like Pride, freedom Writers and all that such never ever give me that inspiring feeling inside of me, until I watched this movie.
Overall rating: Whiplash is a movie that everybody needs to see. This isn't just a popcorn movie where you come and put you legs up and laugh a couple of times, no this movie reaches out to people out there that have the same problems that these character's have, with their passion of what their what to do in life get's over shadowed by something you don't want to do and this movie get's it right. So go and see if you have the chance.
Pros: Excellent portrayal of an asshole (Fletcher) and a jerk (Andrew) with nice cinematography. The music, when it's actually music.
Cons: Absolutely unrealistic, nonsensical plot with way too many WTF moments.
It's still an entertaining one if you can shut your brain off to all the bullshit.
Feels like it is a movie to motivate musicians and that's all. I want my 2 hours of my life back please from watching this.
The ending kind of ruined it.
edit: I appreciate the ending more now, but I still think this movie was just good.
[Copied from my Letterboxd account]
In short it’s about a man who shouts, actually more like screams and emotionally and physically abuses his students to the point of leaving them with severe depression over a career that should be nurtured. The constant stream of highly rated reviews for this is truly baffling to me. The performances are solid enough but the story is not
Whiplash was a sweet surprise to me. J.K Simmons had good acting, and his character was honestly very funny. I do think some things are very random like the car crash scene. Other than that very good. The final sequence was also very intense and great too.
(Ratings done on 3/8/2023) :
Solid 8/10
Story and Characters: 7/10
Presentation: 9/10
Enjoyability: 8/10
This is one of the most dramatic and emotionally draining movies of all time. It's on par with Glen Gary Glen Ross. A rollercoaster with a very simple premise. Been meaning to re-watch but didn't want to deal with all the emotions but caught a clip on Utube and gave it another go. Glad I did. Even knowing the plot and ending it was still a thrill.
What I found in addition to the great acting (and it is), sound, production, atmosphere, etc, is that the story is almost mythological. To be GREAT is by definition something a fraction of a percentage can attain. Is it talent? Is it drive? Is it perseverance or all of the above? That's what's so magical about this story. Both men were aiming way above their limits and however unlikely, despite the hurdles, it took both of them together to reach that mythological status of GREAT.
Well, I'm way late seeing this film. I always like to write a little review, a few of my thoughts for posterity. But the review below is so good that I'm just going to link to it instead. To write anything better is not possible.
http://letterboxd.com/boonmee/film/whiplash-2014/
Drum teachers know a thing or two because they've beaten on a thing or two
I think this is that feeling of adrenaline those mothers get who lift a car to save their child
10/10
"There are no two words in the English language more harmful than good job".
OK, let me just start off with this. You had no idea how much I was really looking forward to Whiplash. This was on my movies to check out list, because I heard nothing but positive things from this movie and I heard a lot of people described this film has the "Full Metal Jacket" but with no war or guns, but with music and drums. I think 'Whiplash' and 'Birdman' was the two movies I wanted to see before making my best movies of the year list, because who knows they might make the list. I haven't seen 'Birdman' yet but will do soon, but I finally had the chance to see 'Whiplash' and my god this movie was just so spectacularly flawless in many ways. One of the best move of 2014.
J.K. Simmons in this movie delivers one of the best performance of his career. Every word that came out of his mouth didn't feel like he was reading from the script then act it out. I felt every angry punch of words that came out of him, because it was so real. I didn't see J.K. Simmons just playing a movie character in this movie, no he was Fletcher!
Now let's talk about Terence Fletcher: The best way to describe Fletcher to those who haven't seen the film yet, well his like Sgt. Hartman from "Full Metal Jacket". When he's on screen your locked on and he's also the kind of person that would be somebody's worse nightmare to have for a boss. This guy doesn't just like music, he breaths music and he wants his band to do perfect. His opinion and his look on music is another thing why I didn't flat out just hated him, I actually understood him. He made a very good point about how people will comment on you act and say "You did a good job", and yes I did use the words "you did a great job", in my past reviews but now I'm never going to use it ever again after this movie.
Miles Teller was another stand out performances in this movie. Just like 'Foxcatacher' where Channing Tatum was so over looked by his performance, well Miles Teller has proved himself to be more then a teen in a movie that will be forgotten and so would he, but no, Miles Teller played this character so brilliantly he could become the next big thing. Now his character in this movie has the love for music and you can see that he wants to tell people his love for music, but when the harsh life of reality comes crashing into him it's truly heartbreaking to see his struggle and effort just not being good enough. Teller played this character so realistic and so flawless.
The directing and the writing in this was just....perfect. Damien Chazelle gave this movie style and passion to tell a story about two strong music buffs battling out and he freaking nailed it.
This movie also had probably the best finale that I've seen in years. My nails were digging into the seat. I didn't dare to look away not for one moment, not for one second. I was simply locked on and when it was over... I'm kidding you I actually clapped towards the end of this movie. Now the biggest cliche that I always hear from critics when their talk about a different movies and their use words like "You will clap at the end", but you don't, or "You will feel inspired after the film", and I you don't. But 'Whiplash' actually did make me feel inspirited towards the end and made me clap. It's message of not giving up and the dream that you been chancing for isn't just going to come to you.
Overall rating: 'Whiplash' is a movie that everybody needs to see. This isn't just a popcorn movie where you come and put you legs up and laugh a couple of times. This movie reaches out to people out there that have the same problems that the main character has, with their passion of what their what to do in life get's over shadowed by something you don't want to do and this movie get's it right. So go and see if you have the chance.
I wanted to post just one word but I need at least 5 words to comment on this section. One word is masterpiece
Intense, awe inspiring, mesmerizing, incredibly written, shot to perfection. I could go on, and I will given the chance, but I don't want to bite off my fingers anymore than I already have.
Andrew, whom wants to be a successful jazz drummer, goes through an unexpected journey being noticed by teacher, Terrence Fletcher. Andrew’s hopes are high throughout the first while of the film, but soon after, Fletcher, sending off a sadistic vibe, suddenly makes it complex and exhausting for him—definitely a character far from cheerful and kind. Damien Chazelle (Director) might have presented, at first, that Fletcher is just a normal teacher trying to push his students for the better and success, however, soon later, Chazelle demonstrates to the audience the teacher's brutality and cruelty forced on his students, physically and verbally abusing them.
As Fletcher utilizes this ‘technique' on Andrew to push him for the foremost he can be, there is a question raised as we watch Whiplash; “How far can a person go?” and “When does it become too much?” Fletcher really did horrendous things and in no way is hurling a fucking chair at a student, or anyone whatsoever, a good manner of acting. However, Whiplash really fucks with our minds, constantly making the audience ask; “Would Andrew be as amazing as he was at the end of the film if Fletcher had not utilized his harsh techniques on him?” We know Fletcher had pursued terrible actions on his students, however, it makes us wonder how far people can go when they really, really desire a passion. Is there a limit to pushing for success?
What an intense fucking movie this was! Endless amounts of nerve-wracking moments. This film obtains astounding acts from J.K. Simmons and Miles Teller; gorgeous cinematography and excellent screenplay by Damien Chazelle; as well as an enthralling soundtrack.
A 19-year-old boy is a student at the most famous music school in the USA. He plays drums and practice hard everyday. One day, a teacher finds him practicing in a room and he invites him to his band which is the most competitive band in the school. The teacher is very strict and allow no mistake. The boy practice hard with bleeding in order to become the core drummer in the band and he gives up everything, even his girlfriend. However, he has to quit the band. A few months later, the boy and the teacher meet again in a jazz bar in the town and he invites him to another band again... The relationship between two are really interesting and the plot is also amazing. You cannot read what will happen till the end. You cannot miss any scene and 105 mins will pass so fast.
My number one favourite movie! Blew me away first time I saw it and continues to do every time I see it!
Wow. This movie is quite intense. I did not know much before watching it, except that poeple considered it to be good and that it's somehow about drumming. Not much to go on. So the first thing you'll notice is the unconventional start - no introductions, no title credits, etc. You are just thrown in: It's dark, you don't see anyome, someone is drumming, and he's getting faster and faster, at the last (climax) beat: light on. A long floor at which end (far away) you see Miles Teller at his drumset. He starts the next song, we slowly move towards him - Teller suddenly looks up and stops, because a man (J.K. Simmons) just walked in - they have a short unconventional dialog, J.K. Simmons being quite condescending. This is how their relationship start, and that's what the movie is all about - there are other actors, but they are just means to an end and could easily all be extras - no one gets enough screentime to leave a deeper impression.
At least 80% of the movie takes palce in the practice room, and shows either Teller in front of his drumset or J.K. Simmons conducting. Sound's riskey, but that's what makes this movie so great: it totally works out! It's thrilling, captivating and intense - right from the first scene to the last, and that's because of so many things: Great camera work, grate editing, great music and of course: great acting.
I don't want to say much more about the story, because I think it will spoil the fun and the movie - only so much: throughout the movie this picture stays unconventional - up to the final which is exceptionally good and yet another "wow".
This is really worth seeing and also worth owning. Great movie!
Crash, bang, wallop, what a picture!
Awesome movie. Intense, greatly acted, greatly written, great music. Lot of other reviews touched on many things, but here is why it was so special for me:
this creates emotional satisfaction. Some movies play with this "formula". And it's the case of the Whiplash. Here, everything happens in last 5 minutes, which then creates the "Wow" you can read in reviews. The whole movie is introducing characters their motivations, and gets them to the base for the climax. (decision to go back, he is at the lowest low, and shines).
further why the last 5 minutes are so strong is my second reason:
feel free to discuss if you don't agree :-)
"I'd rather die drunk, broke at 34 and have people at a dinner table talk about me than live to be rich and sober at 90 and nobody remembered who I was."
I never thought a drummer movie could be so intense. J.K. is so perfect. Miles is also great. The editing is fantastic. Between this and La La Land Damien Chazelle has instantly become one of my favorite directors.
No, I'm not a single tear people...
BA DUM TSS
PS: GREAT MOVIE
Wow...this movie: GOOD JOB !
This was one of the movies I dreaded to watch for the best Oscar movies of 2015. But boy was I wrong! This movie was absolutely amazing! Amazing acting and the story was good too. Really makes you wonder if some people should be allowed to teach young kids. But on the other hand the explanation he gives makes you wonder to....Although I personally think there is a big difference between pushing and motivating. Certainly one of the best movies I've seen
Thats a movie, was very good
I've never actually written a movie review before but man this film just stands out so well.
music is a big part of my life and when my friend told me about this film I just had to sit down and watch it and it's just blown me away.
Everything about this movie is nothing short of perfection; the dialogue, the acting, the chemistry between the two main characters, the overall tone of the movie.
I won't go into the story because you honestly just need to watch it, its such an inspiring film for anyone who's ever thought of giving up or for anyone just chasing a dream.
Whiplash has been one of my favourite films this year that I've had the pleasure of discovering and you need to stop reading this and go and watch it because when it comes to the close of the movie you won't be able to look away and you'll walk away from this movie feeling something else entirely.
Favorite movie ever. Watched for the third time and only get's better!
What a fantastic movie, well worth a watch.
This movie is so awesome!
Easily the best psychological jazz film of all time.
I try not to read reviews before watching films so all I knew about Whiplash was it was about a drummer.
What an oversimplification! Great, tense film about art, mentoring, jazz, drive and sacrifice. Excellent performance by J.K. Simmons.
I can not count how many times i have watched this movie it's really a unique masterpiece that i can't get bored of
What does it mean to be great? I enjoyed "Whiplash" because Damien Chazelle shows how the blood, sweat, and tears that come along to one's craft, even when no one's cheering you on, can lead to success.
It all ends on a triumphantly upbeat note that has the intensity to completely dominate every annoyance and dubious direction that came before it.
One of the best movie endings I've ever seen.
Lesson learned, playing drums does not attract the ladies. Very good movie though.
Raw. Must-watch. How have you not seen this movie yet?
Whiplash – A Riveting Ode to Obsession and Excellence
Rating: 9/10
"Whiplash," directed with fervent energy by Damien Chazelle, is not just a film; it's a visceral experience that thrusts the viewer into the tumultuous world of musical obsession. The performances of the main actors are nothing short of spectacular, offering a raw and unfiltered look into the lives of individuals consumed by their passion for greatness.
Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons deliver career-defining performances, with Teller embodying the role of a young, ambitious drummer, Andrew, and Simmons portraying the daunting, ruthless instructor, Fletcher. Their dynamic is the pulsating heart of the film, marked by intense confrontations and a relentless pursuit of artistic perfection.
Chazelle's direction is a marvel of cinematic craft. He weaves a narrative that's as tight and precise as a well-tuned drum, capturing the essence of obsession with a frenetic, almost palpable energy. The film's pacing is impeccable, mirroring the accelerating tempo of a drum solo that culminates in a climax that is both exhausting and exhilarating.
One of the most striking aspects of "Whiplash" is its subtle yet profound character development. Chazelle masterfully uses silent moments – close-ups of a character's expression, a lingering gaze – to convey volumes. These quiet instances, interspersed amid the chaotic whirlwind of drumming and shouting, offer a deep dive into the psyche of characters who are anything but ordinary.
This film is a study of obsession, not just with music, but with the very concept of greatness. It explores the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their vision of perfection, often blurring the lines between passion and obsession. The characters in "Whiplash" are not meant to represent everyday people; they are a rare breed, single-minded in their pursuit, ruthless in their methods.
In a sense, "Whiplash" is not about the realistic representation of humans but a portrayal of an exceptional kind. It's about those rare moments when such driven individuals collide, resulting in a spectacle of emotional and artistic fireworks. The film asks challenging questions about the nature of greatness and the price one must pay to achieve it.
In conclusion, "Whiplash" is a masterful exploration of the extreme ends of human ambition and the sacrifices made in the name of art. Its electrifying performances, coupled with Chazelle's dynamic direction, make it a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought and discussion. It's a cinematic masterpiece that deserves every bit of acclaim it has received.
This movie, much like Fletcher would require, is perfection.
No Notes.
Absolutely fantastic movie! The tension between Andrew and Fletcher.. damn, it was well portrayed! The emotional roller-coaster that this movie has is unbelieavable. The acting was on point! Hell, even I was stressed at some moments in the movie, haha. The ending is a little bit unfinished for me, but still very-very good!! Great movie.
Wow!! That movie was entirely captivating, there were so few moments where I felt I could even look away. As a lover of all sorts and varieties of music, I could feel the beat of the movie reverberating through my mind all the way through.
Intense
Great performances
Good ending
Characters 9
Story 9
Pacing 9
Visuals 9
Rewatchability Factor 7
Enjoyment or Emotional Value 9
Average Score 8.66
It’s a well acted and good movie with some intense moments, but overall just not really my thing I guess.
super movie. very interesting and entertaining. must watch
the last sequence of the movie makes the entirety of the hour and a half before that worth watching.. the fuck you drum solo, is simply amazing.
I’m not completely on board with the J.K. Simmons love in this movie–I thought his performance was a little one-note overall, although I’m glad he got to quiet down in that restaurant scene. Miles Teller is on my irrational hate list, but overall the movie was decent.
I thought it was a really solid film about music and specifically jazz. The relationship between the drummer and the conductor was intense but it felt real and intriguing. This movie is almost entirely about the music and their dynamic though so if that isn't for you I'd stray away. I've never been to a jazz concert before though and this movie made me appreciate it more. That said, the sole focus on music, is part of the reason I'm hesitant to give it a perfect score. Another reason is just how much of a cliff hanger you're left with. The ending as it is, is great, just expected a little more. I loved how they tried to reconnect his love interest in end kinda was expecting that to just end in that cafe scene. Fantastic camera work most notablely with that final scene. I'd say a superb 9/10!
I thought it was an irritating, power-harassing film from start to finish, but at the end I felt pleasantly surprised, partly due to a feeling of dust and relief. I have not seen many films like this one, which is very refreshing. It was not innovative, but it was a new pattern of punchline. It is a very interesting and touching human drama.
Masterpiece. One of my favorite movies ever!
Find this on Amazon Video
“There are no two words in the English language more harmful than ‘good job’.” These lines define the ideology of Whiplash’s chief antagonist, Terence Fletcher. Fletcher is the villainous maestro of the jazz band in the Shaffer Conservatory, who strove for nothing less than perfection from his students. He would emotionally, and even physically, torment his students for any mistakes they made in the jazz band, because Fletcher wanted to craft the next big thing, the next Louis Armstrong. Fletcher thought these unethical, abusive methods would be the best way to motivate his students. Fletcher doesn’t believe in simply nurturing talent, rather he forces talent out of people by pushing them past their breaking point. To Fletcher, talent is the culmination of hard work. Fletcher also believed the art of Jazz was being diminished because nowadays people are told there good enough, and are fine with not being number 1, the best. Fletcher doesn’t regret any of the abusive methods he used because he was striving to create another Jazz legend, and Fletcher believes only the best could go to further heights with Fletcher’s conducting and not lose motivation from his harsh methods. Fletcher doesn’t care how much he hurts his student’s wellbeing, even with one of his former students committing suicide, Fletcher instead pushes his students past what’s healthy to achieve his end-goal. Andrew Neiman, the main protagonist of this film, an ambitious jazz musician who gets into one of the best music schools and wants to be the best drummer in the world, suffers under Fletcher’s teaching style. While Andrew is certainly a victim of Fletcher’s teaching style, Andrew is also a pretty shitty, self-centered person in his own right. Andrew, deep down, looks down on people who couldn’t follow their passions, like his father, who couldn’t achieve his dreams of being a writer to be a high-school teacher. Andrew also, when having a casual dinner with some close relatives, couldn’t stand the fact that his cousins got more compliments than him. Andrew felts entitled to praise for his hard work and achievements, because he believes that his life aspirations are harder and better than others. On top of being entitled, Andrew is also extremely self-centered. For instance, when life wasn’t going his way, Andrew blamed it on Nicole for potentially hindering his dreams and broke up with her. Nicole never actually did or said anything to prevent Andrew from pursing his drumming career, though she simply “potentially” could. This just shows the similarities between Fletcher and Andrew, like Fletcher. Andrew is self-centered and will hurt others to get where he wants to be. Regarding Fletcher, Andrew suffers severe emotional abuse from Fletcher after getting into the core group of Shaffer jazz band, with Andrew ending his relationship with Nicole and playing the drums even when severely injured. Andrew sacrificed his free time, a future with a girlfriend, and even risked his life all for his passion of the drums. Though Andrew was gifted at the drums, he constantly had to work hard for his performances, with the final solo displaying all of that effort. Fletcher’s so hard on Andrew because Fletcher sees skill in Andrew as a drummer and wants Andrew to reach his potential as one. However, Fletcher’s inhumane teaching style leads Andrew to almost permanently quitting the drums, after Andrew attacks Fletcher in a contest and gets dropped from the band. After this incident, Andrew talks with a legal team about the abusive style Fletcher uses and got Fletcher fired from his job at Shaffer Conservatory. Fletcher and Andrew meet up awhile later at a little gig Fletcher was doing. There, Fletcher tells Andrew about why he taught so cruelly, it was to motivate his students to being the best, and that Fletcher regrets nothing about his methods. Fletcher also invites Andrew to perform in a live performance with Fletcher and his new band group, where there performance could change their lives as musicians. However, this was all a trap for Andrew, Fletcher knew Andrew was the one who snitched. And in the film’s final scene, Fletcher tries to deliberatly sabotage Andrew’s fledgling career by giving him the wrong music for the concert. However, instead of taking that affront lying down, Andrew turns it into an oppurtunity, taking the lead and showing off his talents. Neiman plays the best he ever did, and doesn’t stop when Fletcher signal’s the end, rather Andrew continues and plays an extended solo. In this performance, Fletcher acknowledges that Andrew has what it takes to make it the industry. That’s why, Fletcher cues Andrew throughout the impromptu solo and calls him by his first name for the very first time. By the end of the solo, Fletcher no longer sees Andrew as someone below him. In addition to this beautiful story, the music and cinematography in this film was beautiful. With the opening sequence of Andrew playing on the drums as the camera zoomed in on him being an amazing introduction into Andrew as a character, seeing how skilled Andrew was and the hard work he dedicates to the drums. And also, with all the shots of the musicians as they were playing their instruments being great too, showing the skill neccessary to be able to do high-level performances. I also loved the Jazz music throughout the film, both the diegetic and non-diegetic jazz were a blessing to my ears. The acting was amazing too, Miles Teller did an amazing performance as Andrew Neiman, the aspiring jazz musician, and displaying Andrew breaking down as the stress of failing to perform good enough got to Andrew. J K Simmons played an intense, scary antagonist as Terence Fletcher, constantly having me worried for the sake of Andrew and what he’d do to him next. Simmons was a perfect fit for the scary music conducter, both looking and acting the part.
im slightly disappointed :/ i really wanted to LOVE this movie but i think all the crazy hype made me have some really high expectations
One of my favorites. I highly recommend watching this movies as blindly as possible. It's one of those best completely surprised by the content without expectations. Really should have beat Birdman for Best Picture.
Being the best is not always the best for us, but there is no other way to the top. A film about jazz with amazing music and acting, I recommend.
JK Simmons' character is too one dimensional, over-the-top cartoony. The "faster, slower" scenes got repetitive. But I really liked the third act of the movie.
Very intense movie, held my breath several times while watching Whiplash. Heard very good things about this movie and I am not disappointed. This movie was fantastic. Phenomenal acting.
Great performances, but I zoned out somewhere in the beginning so not really sure what happened
We Know A Thing Or Two Because We've Seen A Thing Or Two. We Are Farmers Ba Ba Ba Da Da
Hello, this time I want to review my best film of all time, whiplash directed by Damien Chazelle who directed the film La la Land, the first thing I like about this film is the acting of JK Simmons which according to me, it went too well, and the acting was Miles. Teller is amazingly good, I really like the way of shooting, the way the camera moves, I really like it, not to mention the synopsis which is really interesting, I like it and maybe a movie like this doesn't have it anymore! If we know and we watch now most of the films are drama, comedy or action genre, according to me, the three film genres are getting more and more, films with drama-music genre may now be rare, maybe there was only one year or it could be nothing at all. Rating for this WHIPLASH film I give you a 10/10.
whoaaaa. So intense. The scrutiny is just so intense. I mean I was sold on Whiplash from the short film that was about 13 minutes long and honestly this delivers. This fully delivers on the promise that the short film made and more. Just a focused character story. J. K. Simmons here at the peak of his acting skill. Absolutely killing it. Miles Teller as Andrew Neiman was honestly unexpected. Like I like Teller but I wouldn't have picked him for this role. It was a very good very edge of your seat movie.
Seriously,why did I wait two years to watch this brilliant piece of art?
I don't listen jazz that much, but after watching this I might start to hear a lot more in the future.
I mean... I knew from what I heard that this was good, but damn, this was fucking awesome! This movie is so well acted, so well directed and written. Great job by Damien Chazelle.
And the ending, holy shit.... the ending. One of the best movies I have ever seen.
Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons gave the performances of their lives. Miles Teller proved in this movie that he is not just another actor, he is a great actor. And J.K. Simmons, I can't describe how good he was. Very well deserved Oscar.
Damn, I'm still trembling....
Simply amazing. This made me want to watch La La Land again!!
Electrifying Movie (Not quite my tempo !)
One of the best movie quotes:
There are no two words in the English language more harmful than "good job".
An easy recommendation for anyone.
Paco Cinema: Image 4.5/5 and sound 4.75/5. It's not my style but I liked. The Oscar for J.K Simmons and sound very deserved
This is an emotional rollercoaster and the music is at the centre of every fibre of it. Out of this world.
Amazing movie, amazing acting. It was so intense and exciting, the ending was perfect
The most intense movie I've ever seen. Excellent performances, writing, and editing, with an amazing ending.
An ambitious, young student drummer, Andrew Neiman, attending the prestigious music academy, Shaffer Conservatory, is recruited by the most respected and feared tutor/conductor at the school, Terence Fletcher. Fletcher’s methods to find and tutor great jazz musicians are abusive and abrasive. Neiman although humiliated and hurt is being driven by Fletcher’s methods and either he will break or he will become a great drummer but what will it cost him?...
This film is a relative of some unholy union between parts of Full Metal Jacket and Black Swan in some respects. Whiplash has come in for some ‘amateur’ criticism about the abusive nature of Fletcher played by J.K. Simmons but no one I have read seems to have really addressed the true topic of the story, which is to be very good, top of the tree, at something you love you have to work really hard at it and it you have to focus on it completely.
Miles Teller when splitting with Nicole, Supergirl’s Melissa Benoist, explains it honestly and fully and for a great summary of what this film is really about just read what Stephen King has said being a great writer requires, and as a sidebar what can happen to you when you work in this way.
The film is almost a two-hander with J.K. Simmons and Miles Teller’s characters being in the limelight for the majority of the running time. Both actors excel in roles that could easily have been two-dimensional and in particular Simmons’ Fletcher could have been a larger than life pantomime baddie. For me there was flaws in the relationship and roles. I would have liked Fletcher to not be cranked up to ‘11’ on the dial but the writer and Simmons tried to show a softer more human side to him, in too small portions but they were there. Teller’s Neiman probably would not put up with that abuse, in fact I can’t see anyone putting up with that for more a few lessons but to be honest I have never been that driven to be that good at anything.
Of course another side to the argument is no matter how much you practice, no matter how much you bleed, no matter how many hours you put in the chance is you’ll never be a great musician/writer/artist because if this was true anyone could do that.
Whatever your take on this film, particularly in whether it is too melodramatic and allows actors to show-off the one thing you cannot level at it is that the film makes you think about what you just witnessed, how would you react? How far would you be prepared to go if you had a talent at something to be the best at it? I’m still not convinced that a teacher like Fletcher would last as long as he did with his methods but then much more serious child abusers have escaped the net in real life as unfortunate real history has proved.
For my part, even though some of the histrionics on display might be levelled as tiresome, I enjoyed the film and the message, even if maybe I could not understand or recognise the behaviours of the characters.
Then again I have never been particularly good at anything or strongly motivated as my paintings and these ramblings prove.
Be really great at drumming but be broken and useless at everything else – hmm no thanks.
Two most harmful words in English - "good job".
The performance of Simmons is the best thing in this movie it's really good
My expectations: Medium. I did not expect the film to be so powerful for me. Expectations exceeded.
Recommendation: Cinema lovers and casual movie goers, I believe will enjoy this film.
Memorable: I am still thinking about this film.
As a musician I can relate to the struggles. The blood, sweat and tears it takes to better yourself has been captured brilliantly. The film is intense although some say its a little slow at the beginning. The sound and mixing was flawless. Will definitely watch again. Brilliant film.
wow. just... wow
super intense
I was stunned by how boring this film was. The character of Andrew felt empty and weakly executed. Also the fact that the on screen drumming didn't match the audio was something that really bugged me. Also anyone who manages to get blisters or even draw blood whilst playing drums is an utter moron. Couldn't be bothered to learn the correct technique of holding your sticks during all the years you've been playing?
JK Simmons is killing it as a menacing teacher pushing his pupils to perform at their best , but at questionable levels.. If you want to be a great musician of your genereration how much do you tolerate? Where do you draw your line if you're that ambitious as Andrew?
Great music, very energetic performances and a in your face-ending !
I can't get tired of this movie... Everything about it is great, not to mention the music sounds amazing!
This movie is just FREAKING AWESOME on so many levels! The music, acting, vibe, originality, characters, directing, building up suspends, score and the angels in which this masterpiece is filmed. For example, to give you the 'vibe and intensity' of the music that they are playing by switching from instrument A to instrument B at the same angle, like you're watching it for your own seat. They don't cut to the next instrument but they sweep the frame instead of cutting to it. Those small things suck you right into it and made me love this movie. I already watched it 5 times and couldn't get enough of it. The greatest part of the movie is the ending, this has more suspends building than all of the 'world is going to be destroyed within 1 minute if hero name doesn't save us' films I have seen. I would recommend this movie to everyone!
Wao! This movie is great. The performances are really good and the story is intense.
There are no two words in the English language more harmful than "good job".
Wow! Now I hear the OST early in the morning to boost my day! Amazing film, acting and music!
Love it!
Intense film. Needless to say J.K. Simmons makes a superb performance that made him win almost all the awards in the season awards in the United States (29 of 34, according to my records). The script is good because it achieves to adapt a story by outlining quite well to the main characters. The sound mix is great but what I liked most was the editing / assembly in the final scene: amazing. Movie highly recommended.
Amazing movie. I highly recommend it.
Great movie and great music!!! Very intense and great performances!!! If you like music you will love it!!!
Outstanding masterpiece and brillant acting performance.
This was a fantastic movie about the drive to be the best and what it takes to be a truly professional musician - not in the sense of "being paid", but in the sense of giving your music everything you have and then some. As a former student of classical piano, I felt this film was very true to the process of what it takes to make music - to translate your soul into sound via instrument, to strive and strive for perfection. An engrossing and well directed piece, with solid acting, well written and absorbing. Highly recommend.
Shout by aldyBlockedParent2014-11-24T09:18:55Z
Whiplash was so damn intense. The movie sounds fantastic; the music, the sound mixing, it's all really, really well-done. The acting was all really good and J.K. Simmons' performance in particular is insane(ly good), definitely a contender for Best Supporting Actor. Occasionally he reminded me of a conductor at my high school who got pretty mad at times, but fortunately not quite as much. The editing was nicely done as well, some of the cuts were timed with the music being played which worked really well and made musical performances interesting to watch. The plot's pretty simple but the story manages to not be very predictable and it's certainly very energetic. The climax was incredible. Second best movie of the year so far.