How Far Can You Go To Be Perfect?

Rating: 7/10 (8 January 2015)

Damien Chazelle's 'Whiplash' asks, "How Far Can You Go To Be Perfect?". The answer lies in you, clearly on what you define as perfection. In Chazelle's World, perfection is ruthless, brutal & life-threatening. But, despite its hardcore approach, 'Whiplash' is a film that's worth watching, thanks to its mostly tight screenplay & bravura performances.
'Whiplash' Synopsis: A promising young drummer enrolls at a cutthroat music conservatory where his dreams of greatness are mentored by an instructor who will stop at nothing to realize a student's potential.
'Whiplash' narrates a frightening tale of a mentor & his student. The anger & ambition between the primary characters is lethal & hardcore. You watch a monster of a coach behaving inhumanly, while the student aims only to achieve goal, come what may. The thriving journey of both the characters, is commendably structured.
However, Chazelle's Screenplay gets slightly monotonous after a point. The repeated confrontations get a bit boring, especially towards the second-hour. However, Chazelle delivers a highly impressive culmination to the story. His Direction is sharp. Cinematography & Editing are good.
One of the prime reasons why 'Whiplash' works, is because of its performances. J. K. Simmons is electrifying as the fearsome instructor, displaying rage & power, magnificently. Miles Teller is unbelievable. He takes upon a role that's challenging & he translates the part into a career-making performance. He's extra-ordinary. Simmons & Teller, both, are Oscar-Worthy!
On the whole, despite some flaws in its screenplay, 'Whiplash' deserves a watch for its tense proceedings & fabulous performances.