Review Rewind: 'Whiplash'

Image via The Huffington Post

Whiplash is a film that I remember was being talked about 24/7 after its release, especially the performances by Miles Teller (who performed 90% of the visual drumming in the film according to director Damien Chazelle). Unfortunately, and regretfully, I did not experience this film at the time of its release. I actually completely forgot about this film, until I bought Chris Stuckmann's first book "The Film Buff's Bucket List," while browsing the On-Screen section in the back of my local Barnes and Noble. Whiplash was on his list and that alone made me stop whatever I was doing in order to finally watch this film. So, thank you, Chris. Now, I owe you one.

Andrew (Miles Teller) is a very ambitious and talented drummer who attends the most prestigious music school in the country. He wants to be the next great talent and doesn't want anything to stand in his way as he sets out to achieve that goal, something he makes very clear to a potential love interest. His family, on the other hand, can't quite connect with this dream of his and instead embody the idea of a more traditional career path. There's a scene at the family dinner table where this is wonderfully presented. Now, enter Terence Fletcher, the most respected music director in this institution (J.K. Simmons). Essentially, he is THE guy you have to go through if you even think you have what it takes to be great. As soon as Fletcher enters a room, everyone stops what they're doing and seem visibly intimidated, and for good reason. After Fletcher takes Andrew under his wing and gives him a core spot in the band, Fletcher's manipulative, vulgar and abusive side emerges. If you are off tempo, out of tune, or unsure of what you're doing wrong, get ready to be greeted with insane insults and flying objects to the face. This is not your traditional instructor. Andrew is the target of many of these outbursts, one of which involves a lot of red stuff on his drums, but you'll just have to see that.

The performances by J.K. Simmons and Miles Teller, along with the direction by Damien Chazelle, really succeed in elevating this film to its full potential. Their clashes in the classroom and during rehearsals succeed in placing you in the front row as if Andrew's fate was your own. There were moments in this film, thanks to Fletcher's unpredictability and explosiveness, where I was legitimately hesitant to watch their next practice or performance. That is when you know a film is truly impacting the audience. The characters and situations become real and make you feel like you're a part of the narrative. I thought Whiplash did this very, very well.

Whiplash is also a beautifully cut film. During the intense music sequences, the fast cuts and close ups of the instruments and Andrew's bloodied hands make the film much more intense. I honestly cannot explain it, you'll just have to experience it for yourself. But, if I had to sell this film based on only one thing, it is definitely Andrew's final performance. I liken it to the feeling you get when Rocky and Apollo fall to the mat, and just when you think the fight is going to end in another draw, Rocky survives the 10 count. I promise you, this performance will make you feel that same way.

I will continue to recommend this film to anyone who wants to watch a superbly acted film with a compelling story. Also, if you're a fan of music, there's definitely something for you here as well. Just don't expect any Stairway to Heaven. Now, if your reaction to this film is not the same as mine, that's cool. I mean, all film is subjective, right? No need to send death threats or accuse me of being paid off by Sierra Affinity. On second thought, if that makes this review reach more people, go for it!