Absolutely... Mesmerizing.

Rating: 10/10 (6 March 2015)

I understand that this film may not be to everyone's appreciative capacity. It is almost like a gourmet meal; sustenance people enjoy more once they have acquired an understanding of its purpose and place in culture. In this case, a deep appreciation for music, specifically jazz music, is that requirement that will ensure you maximum satisfaction while watching this film (that's not to say all others will be unable to appreciate it). The music, however, isn't the only highlight of this movie.
There is so much that this feature has to offer its viewers. The plot is interesting,original, unpredictable,and intense. It inspired nervous emotions to fluctuate through my veins, as it kept me fully focused throughout. The edits where outstanding: fast at times but not shaky, brief but long enough for the mind to comprehend the scene. This greatly enhanced the dramatic sequences (Oscar for editing well deserved). The music, as mentioned - brilliant and genuine.
The actors were unbelievably believable, to the point where I was mesmerized by their performance during certain scenes, being wrapped up into the world I could only see through a screen. It is a rare occurrence for me to be so absorbed into a fictitious world like that. The acting was so convincing I would forget the ever-present thought in my mind while watching movies - "these are only actors imitating." Perhaps even the real actors had forgotten about that fact, for they must've believed in their own roles to pull off such a stellar performance.
I have just skimmed the surface. Hundreds of words of praise come to mind when writing this review but I will finalize this critique with the following statement (contains semi/mini-spoiler):
The last 10 minutes of this movie contain the most intense and emotional battle without words that I have ever seen in a movie. The emotional level is so high that there is no way your mind won't be left blown by the overload of pure filming achievement you had just witnessed. The edits, the sound, the acting, and the nervousness and curiosity it inspires, all add up to an ultimately climatic ending to an already vigorous passionate film. My favorite type of movies are ones that blow my mind, which is usually achieved through the heavy use of unpredictable plot twists and difficult metaphors. This one blew my mind but in a way I never conceived possible, and therefore deserves a perfect rating from me.