Movie Review: Whiplash

Whiplash, starring Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons, is a refreshingly different film in the midst of many familiar movie plots. The film shows a college freshman named Andrew (Teller), who is studying at a prestigious music program. He wants to be the best drummer, and that desire comes with pressure. As he gains the attention from a notorious professor named Fletcher (Simmons) he is pushed to his limits through physical assaults and mental insults.

The way the professor treats his students with intimidation and violence is certainly alarming, but makes for great suspense and uncertainty as the film goes on. The relationship between Andrew and Fletcher is dynamic and even comes with a few twists. Anytime I began to think that Fletcher couldn’t possibly be THAT he crazy, he proves me wrong. Andrew continues to fight on, and you can’t help but root for him, even when his focus hurts relationships around him.

While I don’t think this is a movie I will need to see again, the unique story and vivid performances will stay in my mind for a long time.