Whiplash (2015) Film Review

On Thursday, the Academy revealed the nominations for the 87th Annual Oscars, and as such a number of films I've reviewed more recently have come to gain a high amount of praise from critics - whether deserving or not - it has brought about more intrigue about whether these are the best of the bunch in an already excellent year for movies.With January reserved for these films here in the UK, it's been a joyous adventure. But thus far, it's safe to say that Whiplash is the best to come out to date (and with only Selma and American Sniper remaining, it's easy to assume that it won't be bested).

The story? Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller) is a budding jazz drummer who wishes to be one of the greats. He finally gets to join the most elite class in the United States, lead by the gritty Terrence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons). Unlike a number of other 'Oscar-bait' films, this is its sole storyline, with a minor story revolving around Neiman and partner Nicole (Melissa Benoist) and an integrated family matter, but it's all on the dynamic between Neiman and Fletcher - and it's incredible. It's a story which gets straight to the point from the get-go giving a basic understanding of who Teller is and what he aspires to be, with Simmons opening up from his façade once he finally joins the high-class band, but it doesn't stay to the simple method of keeping Neiman innocent in all this as he does lash out; acting pretentious and self-centred to become almost just as unlikable as his mentor.

There's isn't much with side characters, but there isn't a single bad sport. Paul Reiser as Andrew's concerned single father is great, with his final appearance being somewhat harrowing within the circumstances; Melissa Benoist has a limited but likable role as the potential love interest, disappearing for the majority of the movie but still having presence in your mind; Andrew's fellow drummers are just as intense as he is despite having a smaller amount of screen-time; and finally the rest of the Neiman clan have very brief but prominent appearances, adding to Teller's character swiftly and effectively. 

This is one of the few films, if not the only film, to leave me on the edge of my seat by the end of the film. With every confrontation you feel completely immersed in the action and fearful as what will happen next; it's completely unpredictable and is only pushed further by pretty much everything, whether it be Simmons' performance, the superb direction by Damien Chazelle or the rapid editing of sweaty drummers giving it their all to be the very best and then some and then some more (because it wasn't enough). And thanks to the dark humour which occasionally pops up, it helps calm you down more and prepare for the next bit of all-out tension and fear, and just when you think you're out of the game you get thrown right back into the lion's den. 

If a film can make you tremor, can make you weep or make you scared all in the space of 100 minutes, you have every right to be impressed. Whiplash may very well be one of the best films I've ever seen, and I would absolutely be willing to go for a encore. It’s thrilling, it features one of the meanest (and therefore strongest) roles of the past few years, and there's never a dull moment. This is far more than "a good job" and the makers should consider this show with pleasure. 10/10.