Whiplash is a 2014 musical drama directed by Damien Chazelle, known for directing other musical movies like La La Land. It stars Miles Teller as Andrew Neiman, an drummer who is obsessed at improving his ability to drum and will sacrifice his social,love and even family life in order to become 'one of the greats'. His devotion to the art is challenged when the top music teacher in the country, Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons) , known for his very controversial methods of teaching, begins to psychologically abuse Neiman in order for him to become the best he possibly can.
The execution of the movie is both mesmerizing and disturbing, as you witness a 19 year old boy become an incredible drummer, but the dark path that lead him there makes you wonder if it was even worth it.The fact he gives up on everything else in his life just to gain approval from this one teacher makes you wonder about the morals that he beholds.
The way Fletcher seems to fluctuate between a supportive teacher trying to help Neiman with constructive criticism, to a psychotic maniac who seems to enjoy the harm he bestows onto his students. J.K. Simmons of course plays the character of Fletcher to perfection, with his performance being so over the top yet somehow realistic
Some of my favorite moments from this movie come from how the camerawork contributes to character development. The first shot is especially memorable, with Neiman framed center of a door frame, alone, practicing on his drumming ability as the camera zooms into his room. The other shots that are also well developed are the ones that develop the relationship between Fletcher and Neiman.
One criticism of the movie that I do have with the movie is the way that Neiman's relationships aren't really developed, so when he eventually exiles himself from his family and friends lives, it doesn't have as much impact as I wish it did have.
Overall, the movie is a great story with strong character development and memorable characters, with thanks to a great performance form Miles Teller and a fantastic (yet expected) piece of acting.
9/10
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