If you're looking for something unique to watch, something a little different from your average DVD rental, Whiplash (R)*, the story of a nineteen-year-old drummer and his overbearing music teacher, should be your next pick at Redbox. Starring the fresh-faced and talented young actor Miles Teller and screen veteran J.K. Simmons (who won the Supporting Actor Oscar for his role), the movie is part drama and part suspense. No, there's nothing particularly ghostly about the story, though Simmons' searing performance is enough to give you chills. The suspense comes from not knowing whether Andrew (Teller) will be able to take the emotional abuse he faces at the hands of Terence Fletcher (Simmons). And Fletcher's controversial teaching methods beg a question: is great talent learned through teaching and by willing to never give up or is it something a person is born with? With issues like bullying getting more attention in the media, this question seems more relevant than ever. How far should someone be pushed before they hit their breaking point?
Besides the social issues Whiplash brings to light, the movie is audibly and visually engaging. The fun, punchy jazz music that inspires Andrew to be a great is just as inspiring to the viewer, and the "whiplash" effect of the camera in the more intense scenes allows the viewer to empathize with Andrew as he emotionally and physically hurts himself (by literally playing the drums until his hands bleed) to achieve his dream.
I give Whiplash an 8 out of 10. It's compelling, surprising and it'll keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
*The movie is rated R for the strong and sometimes sexual language used throughout, so if that stuff offends you I would definitely skip it.
Have you seen Whiplash? Do you agree/disagree with my review? What Redbox movies should I review next? Let me know in the comments section below. :)
-Greer
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