Film No. 74 (2014) Whiplash October 16th.

Film No. 74 (2014) October 16th. 6:30 PM PARADISO Northbridge.

Whiplash

Whiplash is a good film. It's a definite for an editing nomination from The Academy. It's uncompromising in its portrayal of human endeavour, to the point where we can't take our eyes off the screen, but we want to. The teacher / student relationship between Andrew Neyman (Miles Teller) and Terrence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons)has a touch of the Karate Kid about it but its Mr Miagi you'd be inviting over to babysit your kids not Terrence Fletcher.

Shaffer Conservatorium of Music, is the most prestigious post grad music school in New York. Neyman is a student battling away down the grades but he has great ambition to become a drummer of the highest standard. To reach that standard he needs to be noticed by Fletcher, who conducts the flagship jazz orchestra of the college. You guessed it, he's noticed and the war of attrition begins. If you've seen the trailer then you have some idea of what you are about to experience.

The film asks the age old question of those who seek to be the best. What are you prepared to sacrifice to get to the top? But this film takes the premise one step further, Fletcher breaks boundaries because his philosophy incorporates brutality, both of a mental and physical nature. He makes no excuses and we just have to watch on, hoping he'll get what's coming. Finally, there is a payoff and it may surprise many.

Whiplash has flaws. They are only minor but they are slightly annoying. The trailer would suggest that Nicole (Melissa Benoist)as Neyman's love interest is integral to the story, not so because their relationship isn't explored in any great detail. The same could be said for Paul Reiser playing Neyman's dad. There is a lack of true depth to their bond. Only one relationship counts in this film; hopefully it won't break you! 
10GUMS