Whiplash is now streaming on Netflix, perfect timing as the Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons movie celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2024. While I’ve previously expressed my love for Damien Chazelle’s filmography, including La La Land but specifically First Man and Babylon (both of which I believe opinion will come around on to see them as the masterpieces that they are), I want to tout the director again for his electric debut movie. Specifically the brilliant Whiplash ending that he crafted.
In case you need a reminder, Whiplash follows aspiring Jazz drummer Andrew (Teller) as he studies at a prestigious music conservatory with dreams of becoming a legendary drummer. He believes the best way to do that is to join the highly touted jazz band run by demanding instructor Fletcher (Simmons). However, Fletcher’s techniques to have his band meet his standards are mentally (and sometimes physically) abusive. How far is too far in the push for greatness?
