Whiplash (2014)

Nominee

Not every film is able to pulsate; to rhythmically ebb and flow through a narrative propelling the viewer forward. However, if there is a story where this pulse becomes not only a whim but a necessity it is the story about a drummer. Specifically, a drummer being driven toward his breaking point. Whiplash not only marches to its own systematic counting carrying the viewer along, it surges recklessly into psychological exploration, and with brilliant performances and perceptive editing it becomes one of the year's greatest films.

The story at its core is simple. It tells of a young aspiring drummer, Andrew (Teller) as he is mentored by a conservatory legend, Fletcher (Simmons). Yet, Fletcher's classroom environment is not one rooted in nurturing but rather terror-driven pressure. J.K. Simmons' execution of this abuse is most disturbing due to how natural it seems while Teller's transformation as Andrew is surprising and very strong. 

Yet, what drew me to this film the most is the seamless collaboration between editing and cinematography. This visual ode to music they create with compelling footage of instruments dances on and off the screen with expert cutting. The result is absolutely mesmerizing. These same tight angles produce the pressure being put on Andrew throughout. The viewer experiences the same claustrophobia, and it's almost suffocating.  Damien Chazelle must have had an incredible vision to find such cohesion of every aspect.

I will say, I almost feel guilty for enjoying this film, because Fletcher's tactics are successful, but also abhorrent. And I do not wish to condone his methods in anyway.

Overall: This film is astoundingly constructed, and well executed. If you are at all knowledgeable about music this is a must see. But even if you are not, every person can watch as a man is pushed to his formative precipice. That vital moment where you either prevail or you cease to exist because someone has pushed you to that point. It is then that anything is possible. Happy Watching!