Whiplash

8

HappyislandsJan 9, 2017

JK Simmons in Whiplash is one of the great movie villains of all time. Vader, Lecter, Chigurh, Landa - add Terrence Fletcher to that list. It's a shame he doesn't have a better name.

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8

AginagalaNov 5, 2017

I remember when I first watched this film, at the start thinking, this could be a good film. As it went on I absolutely fell in love with it and will remain one of my favorite films of all time. I remember actually beginning to feel nervousI remember when I first watched this film, at the start thinking, this could be a good film. As it went on I absolutely fell in love with it and will remain one of my favorite films of all time. I remember actually beginning to feel nervous for the character as he goes on to perform, something I almost never feel in films or tv.… Expand

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8

tamcwlmmJan 7, 2018

Whiplash is an intense movie. From the first minute, you feel the tension. Simmons gives a great performance as a driven musicteacher, that crosses the line multiple times. Simmons gives this character a soft spot, an emotional side that wasWhiplash is an intense movie. From the first minute, you feel the tension. Simmons gives a great performance as a driven musicteacher, that crosses the line multiple times. Simmons gives this character a soft spot, an emotional side that was very unexpected. Teller gives one of his best performances yet. Great movie… Expand

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8

MacsMusicDec 29, 2017

This is a really bleeping great movie. Normally, I bleeping hate the whiny face teenager actor (can't remember his name) but he's really great in this movie. J. K. Simmons is amazing in this movie, giving a really demanding, violent,This is a really bleeping great movie. Normally, I bleeping hate the whiny face teenager actor (can't remember his name) but he's really great in this movie. J. K. Simmons is amazing in this movie, giving a really demanding, violent, energetic performance. The plot is consistently entertaining and the twist ending is amazing. I highly recommend this movie.… Expand

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8

eded9999Apr 9, 2023

J.K. Simmons is 10/10 in the Fletcher role, Miles Teller is also good.

The music is awesome. The story is extremely simple and seems to me very detached from what a music school/career probably is, this is more like one of those "we mustJ.K. Simmons is 10/10 in the Fletcher role, Miles Teller is also good.

The music is awesome.

The story is extremely simple and seems to me very detached from what a music school/career probably is, this is more like one of those "we must make it to the end" sport movies. But the formula works and it's full of small twist that keep you interested.… Expand

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8

Pan_KrytykMar 23, 2022

rewelacyjna rola j k simonsa... miles tellar również zagrał bardzo dobrze... super muzyka... polecam

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8

zrsafarJun 22, 2023

Film would've been a 9/10 if the people I was watching it with weren't simping over the actor the whole movie

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8

Alireza_EsmaeilJul 2, 2023

PAIN is the cost of getting to climax.
Acting could be a little bit better.

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7

LynMar 7, 2015

J.K. Simmons delivered the scene that made me cry as Ellen Page's dad in "Juno," so I was interested to see what the veteran actor would bring to this Oscar-winning role. He doesn't disappoint. As the mean music teacher, he brings perfectJ.K. Simmons delivered the scene that made me cry as Ellen Page's dad in "Juno," so I was interested to see what the veteran actor would bring to this Oscar-winning role. He doesn't disappoint. As the mean music teacher, he brings perfect control and nuanced nastiness, not to mention showcasing his (who knew?!) extensive musical background. So, worth seeing for all this. The plot itself is extremely unrealistic, however. He could be Coltrane, Monk and Gershwin rolled into one, but never would this kind of sadistic severity be tolerated at any school in the country. Also, two exhausting words: "Drum solos."… Expand

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7

JacobNov 18, 2014

I’m have mixed feelings on this film. The acting is great with J.K. Simmons delivering as always, there is a great motivation story in here, the main character is relatable for a good chunk of the movie, and the film looks and sounds great.I’m have mixed feelings on this film. The acting is great with J.K. Simmons delivering as always, there is a great motivation story in here, the main character is relatable for a good chunk of the movie, and the film looks and sounds great. All of this makes it so frustrating when the film gets to the third act. The protagonist becomes unrelatable and unlikeable when you see how overly driven he is to succeed and when the film ended I wanted to distance myself from being like him as much as possible. The film also sends a mixed message telling viewers to work hard and succeed but also shows that downsides of overly driving yourself. The third act takes what could’ve been a wonderful film and just makes it pretty good. This is so heartbreaking for me as I was loving this movie for a while and then the third act came and it just made me want to punch the lead in the face. Now as I am writing this I have yet to see the reviews so I do not know if other critics feel the same way about the film but it wouldn’t surprised me if it got tons of acclaim and no one addressed it. In regards to whether or not I’d recommend the film I’d say see it for the first two-thirds but brace yourself after that because you might not like what you see.… Expand

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7

TVJerryNov 15, 2014

Miles Teller plays a student jazz drummer whose ambition drives him to extremes, while he endures the abusive tactics of a teacher/band leader (J.K. Simmons). Much like director Damien Chazelle's extensive use of close-ups, this film focusesMiles Teller plays a student jazz drummer whose ambition drives him to extremes, while he endures the abusive tactics of a teacher/band leader (J.K. Simmons). Much like director Damien Chazelle's extensive use of close-ups, this film focuses intensely on the personal dramatic conflict. Fortunately, Teller and Simmons create potent characters. The pace never lags, but the grueling encounters (and Simmons' character) sometimes push beyond reality. Still, it's a compelling character study.… Expand

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7

jdb26354Mar 7, 2015

Pros: score, cinematography. Cons: plot line wobbled on credibility, (surprisingly) performance of Simmons as the domineering band instructor. I was in the mood for a test-your-dream story set in the music world, and Whiplash delivered. ThePros: score, cinematography. Cons: plot line wobbled on credibility, (surprisingly) performance of Simmons as the domineering band instructor. I was in the mood for a test-your-dream story set in the music world, and Whiplash delivered. The basic story arc of an ambitious musician finding what he's made of in the New York performing arts world is delivered in workmanlike fashion. Ultimately, however, I did not fear Simmons as the instructor, and thought too much of his dialogue was re-worked from the drill instructor in "Full Metal Jacket." Here, I may have been the victim of high expectations, given the Academy Awards. The drumming performances were quite compelling, at least to a non-expert such as myself, and drew me in to the history of jazz, with Buddy Rich and Charlie Parker key icons of the shared values of the main characters. I thought the final act was a little contrived to arrive at a Hollywood climax, resulting in the pacing of the story becoming more uneven. Ultimately, if this movie rates universal acclaim, then "The Paper Chase" would as well, and I don't think most critics would put the latter in cinema's top echelon.… Expand

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7

Mike_MOct 31, 2014

Very well shot, edited, acted and designed; with a fresh take on old ideas. The movie may have a very specific focus and be nothing earth-shattering on the intellectual side, but it's worth several Oscar nominations. The music is fantastic.Very well shot, edited, acted and designed; with a fresh take on old ideas. The movie may have a very specific focus and be nothing earth-shattering on the intellectual side, but it's worth several Oscar nominations. The music is fantastic. See it on the big screen.

As for the controversy around the abusive teacher, I would say that it's not necessary to feel that the teacher is justified or unjustified, good or evil, effective or hindering, in order to enjoy the movie and find interesting food for thought in it. If a semi-vicious teacher who, in the real world, would overstep the bounds of ethics and even effective technique, is a flaw in the movie, then it's not a damning one.… Expand

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7

Trev29Jan 5, 2015

There are some compelling performances here, although the movie does not live up to it. The movie lacks credibility. However, it is well paced with good editing.

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7

StaticSpineMar 7, 2015

I liked J.K. Simmons's performance, otherwise in my opinion the movie is overrated: the story is predictable, the main character is not charismatic and not interesting as a character. I'd say the movie is similar to Aronofsky's "Black Swan",I liked J.K. Simmons's performance, otherwise in my opinion the movie is overrated: the story is predictable, the main character is not charismatic and not interesting as a character. I'd say the movie is similar to Aronofsky's "Black Swan", though the latter is more moody and intense.… Expand

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7

pesho_oneJan 31, 2015

A little awkward in the beginning and focuses a little too much of the forcing kind of motivational experience, which didn't actually appeal to me, nor I understand it. Also this kind of teaching technique was not actually justified even inA little awkward in the beginning and focuses a little too much of the forcing kind of motivational experience, which didn't actually appeal to me, nor I understand it. Also this kind of teaching technique was not actually justified even in this movie. Apart from this, the movie wasn't half bad and is easy to watch and the drumming parts did a good job as an additional entertainment. There is some blood in it, and it depends if you take this too seriously or with a pinch of salt. I was from the latter type. Overall: it is recommendable, but probably not to every audience.… Expand

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7

yoda1991jagg199Nov 4, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is not a film about Jazz. It is about a sadist who realizes he can prey on relatively innocent students successfully. It is difficult to watch bullying at this level.… Expand

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7

Kacy00Feb 9, 2015

Whiplash is a film about honing in on your destiny and having the determination and drive to carry it out, no matter the cost.

Tremendously acted and extremely relatable to anyone with a dream, Whiplash was a refreshing, tense, andWhiplash is a film about honing in on your destiny and having the determination and drive to carry it out, no matter the cost.

Tremendously acted and extremely relatable to anyone with a dream, Whiplash was a refreshing, tense, and engaging drama.

Set in the New York City, the city of talent and dreams Teller gives a riveting spellbinding, Oscar-worthy performance. Laugh out loud hilarious, this is the best I have seen Simmons in years.

Like jazz, the tempo of the movie was constantly changing adding to the exhilarating climax and denouement. You will love it. A classic.… Expand

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7

horrorliefhebJun 12, 2016

-Whiplash is a 2014 American independent drama film written and directed by Damien Chazelle. Starring Miles Teller and J. K. Simmons, the film depicts the relationship between an ambitious jazz student (Teller) and an abusive instructor-Whiplash is a 2014 American independent drama film written and directed by Damien Chazelle. Starring Miles Teller and J. K. Simmons, the film depicts the relationship between an ambitious jazz student (Teller) and an abusive instructor (Simmons). Paul Reiser and Melissa Benoist co-star as the student's father and love interest respectively. The film opened in limited release domestically in the US and Canada on October 10, 2014, gradually expanding to over 500 screens and finally closing after 24 weeks on March 26, 2015. Over this time the film grossed $49 million, against a production budget of $3.3 million.

-Whiplash premiered in competition in the US Dramatic Category at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival on January 16, 2014, as the festival's opening film. Sony Pictures Worldwide acquired the international distribution rights. At the 87th Academy Awards, Whiplash won Best Film Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Supporting Actor for Simmons, and was nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Picture.

--Critical response:

-Whiplash received critical acclaim, with Simmons' performance receiving universal praise. The film has a score of 94% on review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, based on 256 reviews, with a rating average of 8.6/10. The site's critics consensus states, "Intense, inspiring, and well-acted, Whiplash is a brilliant sophomore effort from director Damien Chazelle and a riveting vehicle for stars J. K. Simmons and Miles Teller." On Metacritic, another review aggregator, the film has a score of 88 out of 100, based on 49 critics, indicating "universal acclaim".

-Forrest Wickman of Slate accused the film of distorting jazz history and promoting a misleading idea of genius, writing." In The New Yorker, Richard Brody argued that "Whiplash honors neither jazz nor cinema". The term "Whiplash backlash" has been used to describe the reaction to the film by those who disliked it.… Expand

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7

amheretojudgeJan 16, 2018

good job..

Whiplash It is a breathtaking experience to watch this movie. J.K. Simmons is clearly the winner here, his constant on and off screen impact in this movie shows how amazing his acting skills are and how well this character wasgood job..

Whiplash

It is a breathtaking experience to watch this movie. J.K. Simmons is clearly the winner here, his constant on and off screen impact in this movie shows how amazing his acting skills are and how well this character was written. It speaks more on the character's point of view rather than the script which holds the movie till the end.… Expand

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7

keonbreezJun 10, 2021

The best part of this movie is JK Simmons. He puts on a great performance as the worst person. The music is also good but the rest of the movie is kind of wild and unorganized imo.

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7

AgentLviJul 7, 2023

Decent movie. The story is so --so, scoring is great, visual is decent, and the voice is also great

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6

NedRyerson1Feb 18, 2015

Whiplash is JK Simmons shining around and getting everyone at his feet. His acting as the music teacher that pushes students to the edge is absolutely breathtaking, nothing like what I have seen in a long time. This character represents allWhiplash is JK Simmons shining around and getting everyone at his feet. His acting as the music teacher that pushes students to the edge is absolutely breathtaking, nothing like what I have seen in a long time. This character represents all the obstacles that life puts in front a person that wants to succeed on a certain topic. The work with the cameras really helped to create this figure, staying with details and looking up, at him, or down, at the rest. The problems with this film starts when you look around at the other things on screen; the plot is almost nonexistent, leading to a chaos of nonsense; the protagonist is not well defined, making impossible for the viewer to understand his actions and decisions; and the camera's work that was magnificent at the beginning is lost along the way. So many incoherent things together definitely can't maintain a person's attention, although if you like to hear an hour forty five of drums, this movie is for you.… Expand

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6

jeanrenoir13Jan 26, 2015

Disappointed by this overrated film. Incredibly conventional coming-of-age movie--the kid vs. the mentor who drives him hard to "make a man" out of him. Total cliche. Teller even LOOKS just like a Jewish Ralph Macchio in Karate Kid. AnDisappointed by this overrated film. Incredibly conventional coming-of-age movie--the kid vs. the mentor who drives him hard to "make a man" out of him. Total cliche. Teller even LOOKS just like a Jewish Ralph Macchio in Karate Kid. An Officer and a Gentleman and the first hour of Full Metal Jacket were much, much more better versions of this very familiar tale than this fairly lame, and totally predictable, film. J.T. Simmons is good, but not in the class with Louis Gossett, Jr, or Lee Ermey. And Richard Gere was much better than Teller in the "determined kid" slot.… Expand

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6

Mancunian2014Jan 30, 2015

Overall, a story one can somewhat relate to: youthful optimism, if not naivete, that they can be the best and that the one person who seems to hate everyone will love them if they only try hard enough. Andrew Neimann seems to think this isOverall, a story one can somewhat relate to: youthful optimism, if not naivete, that they can be the best and that the one person who seems to hate everyone will love them if they only try hard enough. Andrew Neimann seems to think this is possible but ultimately gets mixed messages from the perennially displeased Terrence Fletcher. Maybe he'll be the best drummer. Maybe he'll outshine all of Terrence's students, past and present. You know he never will though and it's not because we never good enough. It's because Terrence Fletcher could have done with a good dose of therapy to relieve his extremely toxic perfectionist tendencies. People don't become great because they are abused and deceived. They become great by being around people who give them positive reinforcement. Whiplash is a fantasy in this sense.… Expand

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6

AxeTJan 28, 2015

Yet another, another, another obscenely over-rated little movie that is fine but certainly NOT great!
Probably written by a Julliard student with a thinly veiled screenplay, and a thin narrative at that, the acting is decent if the leadYet another, another, another obscenely over-rated little movie that is fine but certainly NOT great!
Probably written by a Julliard student with a thinly veiled screenplay, and a thin narrative at that, the acting is decent if the lead characters fairly repugnant and not very pleasant to look at. The film improves as it goes and importantly it does stick with you, but is that enough for this little character study to be ridiculously over-praised by jackass critics and nominated for Best Picture by the monkeys at the Academy? Apparently so. It's an interesting subject for aspiring artists of all kinds yes, but a great film? No!… Expand

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6

onceagainOct 25, 2014

Boring. Like every other movie white people in Hollywood made before. Prolonged shots of someone sweating while drumming does not immediately mean 'intensity'.

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6

kriebelrJan 4, 2015

Positives: J.K. Simmons is terrifying, and really great. He plays a manipulative, abusive teacher that every student fears and longs to please.

Lots of times movies with music as a central theme have fake playing in them that isPositives: J.K. Simmons is terrifying, and really great. He plays a manipulative, abusive teacher that every student fears and longs to please.

Lots of times movies with music as a central theme have fake playing in them that is distracting. This movie is filmed in such a way that the fake playing isn't distracting. In fact, if you don't know better, you won't know the difference.

The story has a ton of interest and holds your attention. There are quite a few shocks along the way.

The Negative: Plot holes...plenty of them. One or two are acceptable...but they became a distraction.

I wish they would have explored the family dynamic more, especially attitudes favoring sports over music.

I think they wrote Simmon's dialogue a little over the top. Yes it had to be shocking...but it was like "Full Metal Jacket" shocking. Over the top in my opinion, and subtlety would have been better here.

The final scene was unrealistic and stupid. Made a great movie just good.… Expand

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6

AmadouIraklidisNov 10, 2022

Pretty decent, though the character became mostly insufferable by the end. A little bit of a taxing watch, though if it strikes your tone, it is definitely worth a viewing.

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5

csw12Jan 6, 2015

Whiplash is a one man show with J.K Simmons. The problem is all the characters felt unrealistic and when J.K Simmons isn't on screen there isn't much to like. Whiplash can be compared to Black Swan, only Black Swan was more convincing.

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5

SmoothrunnerNov 21, 2015

The fact that this movie has earned high rating from its audience is understandable - in the end, a bad sadomasochistic taste of mass audience is no longer a secret. What surprises me is critical acclaim - it seems that critics aren't gottenThe fact that this movie has earned high rating from its audience is understandable - in the end, a bad sadomasochistic taste of mass audience is no longer a secret. What surprises me is critical acclaim - it seems that critics aren't gotten far ahead from the public for which they write.

As for the movie, it is grotesque, stupid sado-masochistic fiction, indulging bad taste and low inclinations of its viewers.

Most sad thing is that someone not to bright might decide that this degenerative movie is actually depicting reality and will try to bring such kind of decay into the real life. From the other side, actual maniacs and degenerates might see this movie as an indulgence to their actions. Well, now I probably understood who those critics with positive reviews on this movie are :)… Expand

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5

benuttyOct 20, 2014

If you've seen this already then you'll understand my clearest criticism: Damien Chazelle needs a Terence Fletcher in his life.

Aside from J.K. Simmon's performance and some stellar editing, I'm not sure there's anything spectacular orIf you've seen this already then you'll understand my clearest criticism: Damien Chazelle needs a Terence Fletcher in his life.

Aside from J.K. Simmon's performance and some stellar editing, I'm not sure there's anything spectacular or revolutionary here. If all you connect with is the thrill then this feels most like Black Swan (but better), and if you connect more with the story then its closest kin is The Devil Wears Prada (but better). Both comparisons make me sigh.… Expand

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5

DudeUnknownJul 12, 2015

One word: OVERRATED. Personally, I think the instructor's methods are correct, as long as there is no physical abuse. The kid was emotional, weak and not even that good of a drummer compared to the others. It's okay to try and pursue yourOne word: OVERRATED. Personally, I think the instructor's methods are correct, as long as there is no physical abuse. The kid was emotional, weak and not even that good of a drummer compared to the others. It's okay to try and pursue your dreams, and you shouldn't be stopped, but if you're going to do so, YOU'VE ACTUALLY GOT TO WORK HARD. If you have less natural talent, then you have to make up for it with hard work. Natural talent is a tiny factor. Either way, this movie went wrong by making the crappy drummer the main character, even though he's less deserving. Disappointing and insane. But I wouldn't go so far as to call it a bad movie.… Expand

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5

MrSuavehFeb 18, 2015

Great premise and acting wasted on a shallow story and one note characters. This story line is overflowing with interesting topics: sociopaths, human potential, bullies, jazz, prodigy, musical genius.

J.K. Simmons plays an abusiveGreat premise and acting wasted on a shallow story and one note characters. This story line is overflowing with interesting topics: sociopaths, human potential, bullies, jazz, prodigy, musical genius.

J.K. Simmons plays an abusive perfectionist instructor motivated by the love of music to produce a jazz great. He has one method of teaching and that is over-the-top emotional abuse. He has one example of this working, which is a myth: Charlie Parker drove himself to excellence because Jo Jones threw a cymbal at his head because Parker screwed up a performance. He deploys his method and cymbal story over and over and over again in the movie.

I thought the film was a revenge plot stuffed with filler made of:
1. J.K. dishing out emotional abuse with lots of Yelling! And Insults! And Slurs!

2. Miles Teller reacting by crying, getting mad or practicing until his hands bleed.
(Lots of bloody hand close-ups and bandages sometimes in slow-motion and sometimes in water because I guess the dispersing blood shapes are artistic.)

3. Great jazz tracks

So I was disappointed that there wasn't more to the characters and the story. Like, for example, why doesn't J.K. have to reconcile his methods against the damage it produces? Or why does he apply the same extreme method to every student when each has a different potential? At the very least show me J.K. at a children's music recital handing out compliments and encouragement to give him another dimension.

People like this exist everywhere in society, coaches, business, science. I don't think the J.K. character is unbelievable I just think this movie left him unexplored and caricaturized.

That said, the actors did a great job with the shallow script. If there were more to the movie it would of produced two incredible performances.… Expand

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5

veravixenMar 1, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. not bad too dramatic, which makes the whole movie more like a farce.
If such a teacher exists in real life, students are more likely to be destroyed than motivated, and he would be brought to lawsuit long ago.
Also the blood the accident just make the whole movie feels very posed and artificial.
Overall it's a not bad movie but far from being also.
I think it's very much overated.… Expand

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5

AvarahApr 20, 2015

One dimensional characters in this one trick pony film leave whiplash viewers feeling like lead -- bloodied and battered. I suspect Hollywood lovers will be ok with that.

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5

gopher1Jun 27, 2015

Whiplash has been compared to "An Officer and a Gentleman," "Full Metal Jacket - your basic go to films for abusive mentor and anxious/arrogant/disturbed pupil. I would offer up for comparison, The Paper Chase" from the late1970s. In thatWhiplash has been compared to "An Officer and a Gentleman," "Full Metal Jacket - your basic go to films for abusive mentor and anxious/arrogant/disturbed pupil. I would offer up for comparison, The Paper Chase" from the late1970s. In that movie, Juilliard acting teacher John Houseman - according to former pupils like Kevin Kline and the late Robin Williams, playing himself - playing legendary Prof. Kingsfield,, intellectually breaks down and then builds up (with absolute personal indifference) a first year Harvard Law student.

Minus the R rated language, it's basically the same story as Whiplash. Student struggles, has some success, immerses himself in every nuance of the course and the instructor, becomes obsessed with pleasing the distant father-figure teacher and, sacrifices his personal life and cool girlfriend because it gets in the way of the student fulfilling his destiny. Paper Chase has a much more believable ending and doesn't stray towards melodrama like Whiplash.
Paper Chase has held up over time, you can find law school professors like Kingsfield today, but I don't think in the current culture of education J.K. Simmons'' Fletcher would last a week in a college.… Expand

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5

jbrown8989Jan 7, 2016

I went in with high expectations and this movie did not deliver. The acting was really good but it wasn't the most exciting movie ever. Good for the critics but not my type of movie.

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5

NickTheCritickAug 9, 2022

I never understood all the enthusiasm for this film that didn't convince me at all instead. Jazz is not that, it is not a war. The script is overflowing, excessive and it all ends up looking ridiculously overloaded. JK Simmons' characterI never understood all the enthusiasm for this film that didn't convince me at all instead. Jazz is not that, it is not a war. The script is overflowing, excessive and it all ends up looking ridiculously overloaded. JK Simmons' character looks like Sergeant Hartman, but you are not in Vietnam here, but in a jazz school. Jazz doesn't make your hands bleed when you play drums, this is not the real impact of music in people's life . Chazelle's directing didn't convince me at all.… Expand

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4

WiscoJoeNov 24, 2014

This cliched after-school special of a movie plays like a cross between Black Swan and Mr. Holland's Opus and every other "struggling genius underdog" movie ever made. Fine performances from Teller and Simmons and incredibly tight editingThis cliched after-school special of a movie plays like a cross between Black Swan and Mr. Holland's Opus and every other "struggling genius underdog" movie ever made. Fine performances from Teller and Simmons and incredibly tight editing can't make up for the thread-bare story and the unlikable, unrealistic characters. If you're interested in jazz or in drumming, seek out a local music venue and treat yourself to something real.… Expand

7 of 13 users found this helpful76

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4

tomizawaMar 7, 2015

When a movie thrills me, whether it's by inducing sadness, anger, excitement, curiosity or fear, I have to conclude it's a good movie because transcends the screen and can have an effect on the viewer. This was not the case with "Whiplash".When a movie thrills me, whether it's by inducing sadness, anger, excitement, curiosity or fear, I have to conclude it's a good movie because transcends the screen and can have an effect on the viewer. This was not the case with "Whiplash". It only made me feel pity, disgust and need to /facepalm. I admit, this movie might be considered edgy (because it shows a sensitive topic) and maybe a work of art, but it lacked essence and relatability. Characters seem like empty and underdeveloped canvases. This film relied too much on shock value.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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3

AkashVijayJan 18, 2015

The movie glosses over reality on so many occasions that it's hard to take it seriously. Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons give great performances but they're both oversimplified characters. Simmons just plays a comic book villain. How no oneThe movie glosses over reality on so many occasions that it's hard to take it seriously. Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons give great performances but they're both oversimplified characters. Simmons just plays a comic book villain. How no one filed a complaint against him in his time at chauffeur is beyond me. Moreover how did he get a job as the conductor of a pro band despite the fact that he's been accused of emotionally torturing a boy to the point where he committed suicide? Shouldn't Fletcher be in jail? How is he walking free. Moreover some of his actions don't even make sense. He expels a student from the band who is in tune because he didn't know whether he was off tune but doesn't even take action against the one who's out of tune, even though he's completely oblivious to that fact as well? I'm sorry is it just me or is that a contradiction. Car accidents don't seem to bother our protagonist too much. That's the least of his problems. He just couldn't afford any scars at that time so he didn't get any. "There's no to words more harmful than Good Job"? Really? That's not dark, that's not bleak, that's just stupid and simplistic. Whiplash is a film about the pain that accompanies passion, and the blood that's shed on the road to perfection. But sadly, it doesn't execute well. The movie has some tense scenes but the overall result is contrived and unsatisfying. It has a few twists but ultimately it's the same conventional story about the tough love shared by the arrogant apprentice and the abusive master.… Expand

2 of 9 users found this helpful27

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2

zimmyJan 12, 2015

I've never felt so out of step on a movie as this. To me it was simply awful. Homophobic rants, ritual verbal humiliation and physical violence and I'm still expected to feel some kind of sympathy for the protagonist and still meant toI've never felt so out of step on a movie as this. To me it was simply awful. Homophobic rants, ritual verbal humiliation and physical violence and I'm still expected to feel some kind of sympathy for the protagonist and still meant to believe he'd be allowed to be a teacher in a top music school. Okay, in truth I wasn't bored...the performances are great and there are some fairly good moments but it's ultimately a cliched 'overcoming-the-odds' sort of thing that I've seen far too often in the past.… Expand

4 of 16 users found this helpful412

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2

ExqweezmeAug 25, 2015

Trite. The renowned Jonathan Schwartz says "Jazz is the sound of surprise." That sound is missing here. Predictable, cliched, and dull, and no doubt some kind of cathartic outlet for seniors (the majority of current moviegoers) where J.K.Trite. The renowned Jonathan Schwartz says "Jazz is the sound of surprise." That sound is missing here. Predictable, cliched, and dull, and no doubt some kind of cathartic outlet for seniors (the majority of current moviegoers) where J.K. Simmons represents the overly demanding/never satisfied parent and Paul Rieser the unconditional love/support icon. Neither suffer any consequence for their actions, it's Miles Teller's character that is the reagent to their catalyst - a mushy dollop of clay for them to shape - and the audience is left with no clear moral consequences for any of their actions.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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2

royphishoohJan 19, 2015

Another disappointing Oscar "best film" nomination. Music is about joy, and there is very little joy portrayed in this tale; it is replaced by the same arrogance exhibited in "American Sniper". The mindless drive for an imagined perfectionAnother disappointing Oscar "best film" nomination. Music is about joy, and there is very little joy portrayed in this tale; it is replaced by the same arrogance exhibited in "American Sniper". The mindless drive for an imagined perfection belonged more on the American football field than in a music school.… Expand

4 of 15 users found this helpful411

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2

alexo774Jul 19, 2015

One of the worst and most offensive films I have ever seen. I see where they're going with the direction, and I can see that they tried, but the gay-bashing words, the ridiculousness of the plot, and one of the most overrated actors of ourOne of the worst and most offensive films I have ever seen. I see where they're going with the direction, and I can see that they tried, but the gay-bashing words, the ridiculousness of the plot, and one of the most overrated actors of our time (Miles Teller) delivering a terrible performance makes this one of the worst movies I've seen in recent times.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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2

TLHGDec 16, 2015

An extravagant mentor with a lot of style who pushes the young pupils to the edge and pupils playing the mentor's game... I've seen that in House, Devil Wears Prada, even in Hell's Kitchen... and now in Whiplash. This movie is nothing but anAn extravagant mentor with a lot of style who pushes the young pupils to the edge and pupils playing the mentor's game... I've seen that in House, Devil Wears Prada, even in Hell's Kitchen... and now in Whiplash. This movie is nothing but an old plot with a new costume, one that adds a hip/cult aspect to it and will extract good comments from posers who want to look hip and cult. Very superficial though and get bored when you watch a movie that does exactly what thousands of movies have done before, don't bother watching. One point to Simmons and one point to the music though.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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0

historyman1969Nov 9, 2014

About 15 minutes in, the sadistic, autocratic jazz (?!) instructor played by J.K. Simmons screams, berates and belittles a trombone player for being out of tune, kicks him out of the class, then confesses that the student wasn't really out ofAbout 15 minutes in, the sadistic, autocratic jazz (?!) instructor played by J.K. Simmons screams, berates and belittles a trombone player for being out of tune, kicks him out of the class, then confesses that the student wasn't really out of tune. That's when I walked out. My time is too precious for unrealistic crap like this. My first thought was how could such an individual get into a position of authority without students, parents, and co-workers all filing harassment complaints against him! It's just not believable. And then there's the fact that he's teaching jazz -- one of the most un-strict musical genres out there -- the whole point of jazz is spontaneity, improvisation, a willingness to BE imperfect -- I could believe an authoritarian conductor in classical music, but not in jazz.… Expand

6 of 42 users found this helpful636

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0

jhepMar 31, 2015

What a VILE movie.....sitting through it was a kind of emotional abuse experience.....we're talking ham-fisted, cinematic Hissy Fit here !…. so glad to see that some comments here are by people who also hated the film.....I walked out afterWhat a VILE movie.....sitting through it was a kind of emotional abuse experience.....we're talking ham-fisted, cinematic Hissy Fit here !…. so glad to see that some comments here are by people who also hated the film.....I walked out after about 45 minutes- enough is enough !..........."Whiplash" reminds me of “Black Swan” of a few years ago- another bizarre and nasty, mean-spirited exercise that was likewise delivered with sledge-hammer blows........the sort of thing that makes you wonder what the director's childhood must have been like !......so sad to see so many film critics and User Review critics still buying into this sort of ADOLESCENT **** crap that went out with John Wayne all those years ago ..... and then giving Simmons an Oscar for his one-note, over-the-top performance !!......all in all a film by an adolescent FOR adolescents...more infantilization of pop culture.… Expand

2 of 57 users found this helpful255

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0

TheDavoDec 27, 2014

A dreadful movie. The story line went from preposterous to idiotic over the course of the movie in true Hollywood fashion. The sociopathic instructor would not be teaching at any reputable university and would likely be in jail for assaultA dreadful movie. The story line went from preposterous to idiotic over the course of the movie in true Hollywood fashion. The sociopathic instructor would not be teaching at any reputable university and would likely be in jail for assault or hate speech. Spoiler alert - the hero not only survives a t bone collision with a big truck that flips his car but goes on to give the performance of his life while dripping blood. Seriously ?… Expand

9 of 35 users found this helpful926

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0

SamfortalOct 6, 2020

There a better ways to develop tenacity and skills. Spartan teaching methodology is stupid.

1 of 9 users found this helpful18

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0

RetiredNomadNov 20, 2014

If you like to watch emotional humiliation, by nasty people to both nice & nasty people, this is the movie for you. Having seen the high metascore, I restrained myself from walking out in the first 15 minutes. I had formerly enjoyed J. k.If you like to watch emotional humiliation, by nasty people to both nice & nasty people, this is the movie for you. Having seen the high metascore, I restrained myself from walking out in the first 15 minutes. I had formerly enjoyed J. k. Simmons for his pleasant smile & disposition. That smile was still there, as he used words to mutilate the spirits and confidence of young men. Thinking the movie had to get better, I waited until about 2/3 through when a cliched plot feature was inserted.

It is crazy that irrational yelling & screaming is viewed as a story. Pointless. For me, it was simply painful to watch. BTW - I've only walked out of one other movie in my life.… Expand

8 of 23 users found this helpful815

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0

TrueReflectionDec 2, 2014

I was quite disturbed to see that the reviewer's rated this film so highly. It explores the topic of how to inspire students to greatness. I felt like I was watching a time warp from the 1950s when some male coaches and teachers couldI was quite disturbed to see that the reviewer's rated this film so highly. It explores the topic of how to inspire students to greatness. I felt like I was watching a time warp from the 1950s when some male coaches and teachers could physically and verbally abuse students with homophobic and sexist rage, shame, and almost unimaginable humiliation. Further imagine a teacher who uses your deepest and darkest secrets such as the abandonment from your own mother to repeatedly scream at you "That she left you and your father because you are worthless pieces of s**t". Chazelle seriously subjects the audience to his belief that this deeply scarring rage and abuse is required to create a great musician. This movie is more of a deeply disturbing example of why many men will never begin to heal from the layers of shame, depression, and rage. I 'd hate to see this movie nominated for anything and suggest it's creator pick up a book about what really motivates people and recent research into shame, humiliation and the real material of greatness.… Expand

6 of 30 users found this helpful624

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0

grootFeb 7, 2015

Boring, unrealistic...no one would put up with that crap. Another film that was supposed to be so good, but as usual disappoints.................................................................

3 of 26 users found this helpful323

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RWEF2011Mar 11, 2015

I absolutely hated this film. It was completely contrived and over-acted. The music was wonderful but was obscured by the yelling and attempts at intensity. Simply, it was forced and had me rolling my eyes from the get go.

3 of 13 users found this helpful310

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Whiplash

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