Whiplash
Andrew Niemann, a nineteen-year old jazz drummer from Germany, wants to compete with Buddy Rich. Although he doesn’t have a musical pedigree, Jim Niemann, his father and high school teacher, is an unsuccessful writer, this goal has been achieved. Andrew will start his first year at Shaffer Conservatory for Music, which is the top music school in America. Being the best at Shaffer means that you are accepted by Terence Fletcher to study and be asked to join his studio band. This group represents Shaffer in jazz competitions. Andrew was not happy with their first meeting and is shocked when Fletcher asked him to join his band. He is willing to take the alternative drummer role, but he’s more than happy initially. Andrew soon discovers Fletcher’s fear-based approach to life. He is not content with being the least good. Fletcher believes that being the best means more than just playing well. It also requires knowing what your mistakes are and how to fix them. Fletcher’s modus operandi instils fear in everyone within the band. Andrew is determined to achieve his goals. Andrew must decide what his priorities are and what sacrifices he will make to achieve the greatest. Another question is how much Fletcher will abuse him emotionally to help him achieve that level of greatness. He may think he cannot do it without Fletcher’s avenues. –Huggo
Director: Damien Chazelle
Actors: Austin Stowell, Chris Mulkey, J.K. Simmons, Melissa Benoist, Miles Teller, Nate Lang, Paul Reiser
Country: United States
