Whiplash Review

Reviewed by David Savage

Starring: Miles Teller, J.K Simmons, Paul Reiser, Melissa Benoist
Directed by: Damien Chazelle
Certificate: 15
Running Time: 107 minutes
Release Date: 1 June 2015
Format: DVD & Blu-ray

Whiplash is about a 19 year music school student, Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller) with a passion for drumming who aims to be the be the best and dreams of greatness. While a first year student at one of the country’s top rated music schools he is noticed by the notorious tyrant band teacher, Terence Fletcher (J.K Simmons), who demands nothing but perfection and will not tolerate anything less.

In his pursuit for greatness and to be better than his father (Paul Reiser), a failed writer, his obsession with his drumming and the need to please his perfectionist teacher his desire leads him to lose his girlfriend (Melissa Benoist) and change his life forever.

While Neiman searches for greatness, Fletcher is hunting for perfection and pushes way Neiman past his abilities as he believes in the boy’s talent but pushes too far and then seeks to destroy Neiman’s career.

Overall, Whiplash is a drama about music, passion and obsession. While the story is based around a jazz band it is more about the relationship of an obsessive student and teacher and the dangers of striving for perfection.

Whiplash is a totally engrossing film that with keep you enthralled. You do not have to be a music lover to enjoy this story. Highly recommended.

Rating: 5/5

RRP: £9.99 (DVD), £12.99 (Blu-ray)

Available to buy from Amazon here.