Sweaty duel

Rating: 6/10 (12 January 2015)

I once sat at a full drum kit with the sticks in hand. Couldn't do a thing. Completely daunted.
So this is an overcoming-obstacles melodrama. I know that because the hero not only survived a driver's side t-bone collision with a truck but then raced to the concert with blood dripping from his scalp.
For that reason I can't take this film as seriously as many other reviewers.
The story is taut and focuses so heavily on pupil and teacher that the other characters don't get much of a look in. Everything looks and sounds good, and I liked the abrupt ending.
Usually this kind of thing is heart-warming, but this one aimed for brutal oneness. It succeeded, but I was expecting something more than a duel and a Buddy Rich speed contest.