Whiplash

I just sent this review of the 2014 film "Whiplash" to my drummer who hasn't seen it yet:

 "19 year old jazz drum prodigy Andrew doesn't realize his life is about to change when he accepts a position in Fletcher's jazz band during his first year at the world's best music conservatory (its a fake school). The introverted boy transforms ala "Black Swan" once he becomes in contact with this bloodthirsty-in-the-name-of-greatness professor (JK Simmons). Oh there's blood all right, and torture, and loads of obsessive psychological damage. Meanwhile, enjoy lots of cool jazz standards like Duke Ellington's "Caravan" and the song "Whiplash" itself. The sticking and hand control of the players are tear-jerking. You'll sob over his ability to smoothly play through rudiments and control the tone and tempos thrown at him (okay, tear up, maybe not sob). He began the film a great player as far as I can see. The ending will fuck you up. Give yourself an hour or two to get over it. If you're feeling vulnerable, give yourself a week. Then it'll make you want to practice."

 grade: B+