Before this film had been released, the critics were already writing about how amazing they expected it to be, and they were right. I had been waiting to see this film, but it was hard to find a theater that was playing it. Now it is at some mainstream theaters, so I was finally able to see it. Whiplash kept me on the edge of seat. There were moments when I laughed, cringed, gasped, even got angry. This is a must-see film. I think I liked it more than Birdman.
Andrew (Miles Teller) is a first year student at the Shaffer Conservatory of Music. He plays the drums, and from the opening scene, we know that he is trying harder than most of the other students. His goal is to make it into the school's Studio band, but he knows that will be a challenge. The conductor and teacher of the studio band is the one who picks who is in the band, and everyone is hoping to be discovered by the mischievous Fletcher (played phenomenally by J.K. Simmons).
Fletcher's specialty is pushing students to their limits, and then kicking them out of the band. He snakes into their personal lives to use the information against them when they are not meeting his ridiculous standards. Andrew learns this the hard way when he reveals to Fletcher that his mother left when he was young. Andrew believes that his only key to success is through Fletcher, and the two struggle to bond. Fletcher constantly scolds the band with abusive speech, and even assaults Andrew by hitting him in the face several times.
Fletcher does not believe there is a limit to pushing someone, and Andrew doesn't know if that is believable. Andrew wants to be successful, so he is willing to give into the harsh demands of his professor, and even struggles with family and friendships. Andrew's ambition drives him to his limits and he doesn't know if it is all worth it.
There is never a back story revealed about Fletcher. It is unknown why he is so twisted, but we do learn that he does have his moments when he learns about the death of an old student. His endgame is not revealed until the end of the film, when he and Andrew finally have an ultimate clash.
The story and music were amazing. I'm betting on J.K. Simmons for Best Supporting Actor this year. He did an amazing job portraying an educated jerk. While Miles Teller did a good job, I do understand why he was not nominated for Best Actor. He's still new to the film industry, but his other films have centered more around his acting. If I didn't think Boyhood would steal best picture, I think this one would be my pick. As soon as I walked out of theater, I was already wanting to watch it again. This is a film that everyone should see in theater, if possible. It is not playing everywhere, like many other Academy films. (Why can't they make it easier for everyone?) So, if you miss it in theaters, you must see it on DVD or streaming when it is released. This film does have a happy ending, although it's semi-satirical, but I did walk out with a smile on my face.
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