WHIPLASH
Whiplash is the first movie entirely written and directed by Damien Chazelle, one of my favourite directors, probably most known for the extremely successful “Lalaland”. However, it is Whiplash the small and captivating story that firstly introduced many people to this wonderful artist.
The story revolves around the conflict between the two main characters, Andrew and Fletcher, and their shared obsession with perfection. Andrew is a young talented drummer who has recently entered a prestigious music academy. Fletcher, impersonated by the fantastic J.K. Simmons, is an old musician that directs the academy’s main jazz orchestra.
In the beginning, Fletcher gives Andrew the chance of playing in his band, seeming to be a kind and friendly man, nevertheless, it does not take long before Andrew and the audience discover the truth behind this character. Fletcher is actually a rageous psycho that will not accept anything but perfection from his musicians. Here is where the movie gets really engaging, as the viewer keeps wondering what will be the next thing to set this man off, resulting in a loud explosion of very creative insults and the expulsion of someone from the band. As the movie goes on, we start to understand this character, he is a man disappointed with the music industry, that no longer appreciates true art and dedication, and with his students, who fail to share his vision on the subject. However, he can be so arrogant and abusive that we end up hoping for Andrew to succeed and prove Fletcher wrong.
Although the movie had a budget of 3.3 million USD, which is very low for a production like this one, it manages to do the best with what it has. There are no large sets with hundreds of extras in this movie, the scenes, in fact, feel very personal and intimate, for the focus is never drawn too far from the main two characters. Instead of wide shots showing entire sets, the film relies mostly on close shots that allow the viewer to fully concentrate on the characters emotions and actions.
Being music the main subject of the film, the various songs in this movie have a huge role, in some scenes there is no dialogue at all and a lot of what these characters are feeling is expressed solely on what they are playing or how they are doing it. The themes are fast paced and very complex, showing how much dedication it takes to reach that level of mastery in music.
In conclusion, Whiplash is a must see for all movie lovers, as it is not only an entertaining and passionate film, but one with an honest message about art and dedication that is phenomenally delivered in a climactic conclusion.
This article has been written by CALVIELLO Mateo, GIULIANO Franco, GRANDE Joaquín and LAURINO Manuel.
