Whiplash (2014)
It’s quite my tempo.
Presentation:
This could very easily have been a boring looking film as seen from original short. JK Simmons and Miles Teller give us a performance of a decade, creating one of the most raw relationships in a believable world. The score is magnificent and the brings to life some of the most legendary drum solos of Buddy Rich. The film looks great with a lovely sodium vapory grade, and you'll wish you can have lessons in the same room.
Story:
This is such a compelling story about obsession and pursuit of greatness at what cost. Most of us have strived for perfection at some point in time. This innate desire for greatness is hopefully a goal that most of us aspire to include the trials of self doubt and fear of irrelevance. For music loves, this is a huge plus but those that don't understand music will still love the ride. The story is truly subversive and you even question if the antagonist was really ever wrong to begin with. I think it's quite influential on culture and you'll see similar themes in future films. Especially in modern times where purpose and roles are more ambiguous, greatness seems to be the only star in the sky and this movie captures the new modern American dream. Who took the folder? Fletcher did. The drummer states to Fletcher, "you know this", which means the script implies that he took it. But I believe he took the folder not to give Neimann the part, but also because he pathologically tests his students. Maybe Tanner is the best drummer and he wants to push him to see if he can play without sheet music just like he tests everyone.
Conclusion:
One of the best musical films but at its core, a thrilling suspenseful duel between the rawest of performances. This might be one of my top films of all time and I could rewatch it again and again.
Recommendations
Bombastic visuals and storytelling make for an indecisive biography.