Think Black Swan, but drumming

Rating: 6/10 (13 May 2020)

A psychological drama, accompanied by some jazz music. This film takes perseverance to a whole other level, and not necessarily in a good way.
From the moment we are introduced to Fletcher, he demands the screen. Ruthless in his verbal insults, and extremely intimidating - he inspires mostly fear amongst his pupils (and weirdly they still seek his approval). His methods of mentoring are torturous, both mentally and physically and it was astounding to me that he justified this later in the film.
Neiman (Teller) is spotted by Fletcher and begins his transformative experience to becoming one of the greats. Throughout his interactions with his Fletcher, the close up shots really showcase Miles Teller's acting skills. You can see the determination on his face, and his anguish when Fletcher dismisses him. It was really easy to empathise with his character, especially when his spirits were crushed by Fletchers vicious slurs. *spoliers*
As the plot progresses, Neiman's ambition becomes obsessive and borders on neurotic (especially when he is involved in a car crash, gets up and walks on stage covered in blood and begins to play the drums). This was a very absurd moment in the film.
It made me angry that Neiman still sought Fletchers approval after everything he put him through (pushed him to the brink of insanity/publicly sabotaged him/plunged him into depression and almost forced him to abandon his dream). I wouldn't say there is anything inspirational about this film, and Neiman's triumphant drum solo at the end is still contingent on Fletchers approval of him as an artist. It kind of sends the wrong message that in order to succeed you need to go through hell; blood, sweat and tears.
The ending dragged on longer than was necessary (there's only so much of a drum solo you can take without thinking ... are you finished yet?) Regardless, Teller & Simmons together was a gripping watch.