Not just Great Performances but a Great Film.

Rating: 10/10 (13 January 2015)

Obviously going into this film the hype was high with word of J.K. Simmons and his masterful performance, however I was pleasantly surprised by just about everything pertaining to this film. The performances, dialogue, lighting, cinematography, and over all direction was extremely well executed. There is a specific event in the film which kind of crosses a line into a completely unbelievable circumstance, however it does recover itself. The editing at points felt abrupt and rough, however it doesn't hinder the film too much. Just about every actor is over shadowed by the absolutely masterful performance by J.K. Simmons, one thing to be noticed by the end of the film is the performance of Miles Teller who seemingly solidifies himself as (as cliché as it is to say) one of the best young actors around. This film is certainly worth watching, no matter if you like Jazz or not.
Also, I would like to say that I've noticed a few negative reviews regarding the "intensity" of some characters and the vulgarness of some of the lines. These people are politically correct douchebags, the type of person who get offended for other people, and who think a film showing assault simply means the creators condone that behavior. If anything, this movie is enjoyable if you've experienced life, persevered, and even after doing everything right you're told it's wrong, that's life and this film nails it. It makes you feel defeated at points, and it makes you feel enthused about something only to get slapped in the face (in a good way).