Not only does Whiplash take a great look at motivation and ambition, but its is also one of the most tense films you can see

Rating: 10/10 (27 January 2015)

Driven by outstanding performances by both Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons, Whiplash tells the story of an aspiring drummer, Andrew, at the Schaefer Conservatory of Music and his conductor and mentor Terence Fletcher. The movie mainly details the relationship between Andrew and the abusive Fletcher. Andrew is willing to do almost anything to become a successful drummer, saying that he "never saw the point of friends" and he also breaks off the only meaningful relationship he has had, because it would only hold him back. His determination to succeed is encapsulated when he is a victim of a vicious car accident, but still insists on playing. His bloodied determination stems from his fear of not amounting to anything, as he says to his family he would rather die young and be remembered than live a long life and be forgotten.
What this movie does best is avoid clichés. From the outset Fletcher seems like the prototypical hard teacher who just wants his students to reach their potential. He even shows his own side of vulnerability and humanity when he hears of the death of one of his students who, as we learn later, was driven to suicide by Fletcher. However, Fletcher does not push his students for their own sake, he does it for himself. He just wants to be credited for their development. In Fletcher's eyes he needs a Charlie Parker to throw a cymbal at.
Above all, Whiplash is simply an enjoyable film to watch. The drill instructor-like insults that Fletcher throws out are nothing short of hilarious and the tension throughout the film, culminating in the final scene, is nothing short of brilliant.