Background:
Whiplash is a 2014 American drama film written and directed by Damien Chazelle. The film stars Miles Teller as a young jazz drummer who attends one of the best music schools in the country under the tutelage of the school's fearsome maestro of jazz (J. K. Simmons). It also stars Paul Reiser, Melissa Benoist, Austin Stowell, Jayson Blair, and Kavita Patil.
The plot:
On the way to the concert, Andrew's bus breaks down, and the replacement bus stops far away from his destination. Andrew runs to a rental car office, where he acquires a car, but accidentally leaves his drumsticks behind. Andrew arrives late for rehearsal and is kicked out by Fletcher for not bringing his drumsticks. Andrew speeds back to the rental car office and grabs the drumsticks.
While he is on his cell phone explaining that he will be back in time for the performance, Andrew's car is hit by a truck. Dazed, Andrew stumbles out and runs to the concert in time. Despite being bloody and having broken his left hand, Andrew decides to perform, only to repeatedly drop his drumstick mid-song due to his injuries. Fletcher tells Andrew he is "done", causing Andrew to attack him in front of the audience.
Our verdict:
Lukas Moodysson returns to the 1980s with his delightful tale of a young Swedish punk band bellowing themselves away from everyday trauma. Everything about this film suggested crossover success. Sadly, Moodysson and his brilliant cast must settle for a cult following. Read full review here.
Attend:
Book your place at our screening on Friday, March 6th, at the Odeon here.