Near Perfection

Rating: 9/10 (23 June 2015)

Being a musician for the past 10 or so years, I was easily intrigued by and reeled into this film. My interest level also increased upon finding out that this was about a jazz band. So, I applaud them for doing something that was different than usual.
The acting in the movie was phenomenal and close to perfection. J.K. Simmons and Miles Teller both played their roles with precision, with J.K. being the old, intimidating director who demanded perfection no matter the cost, and Miles portraying a young, raw-talented musician who would do anything to please this director and become successful. J.K.'s performance in particular really impressed me. His lines, his intimidation factor, his profanity, his bizarre actions. Simmons owned it. I also enjoyed the cinematography as well as the soundtrack. Both being pieces of art in my humble opinion.
Now, about the ending. To be honest, I was very upset at the ending after my first viewing. I wanted more. What happens after the performance? Did he earn J.K.'s respect? Was his ex girlfriend there/impressed? Does he get signed by someone like the Blue Note? I wanted answers. However; after watching again and thinking about it, I realized that this movie was aimed to show what this kid would do just to be perfect. And in the end, after he nails that epic solo, and once he hits that last cymbal crash, perfection is resembled. He had done it. He had accomplished it. It was perfect.