Whiplash focuses on Andrew (a standout performance by up and coming young actor Miles Teller), an ambitious and single–minded young jazz drummer inspired by his terrifying teacher Terence Fletcher (a deservedly multi-awarded performance from character actor JK Simmons).

Writer-director Damien Chazelle’s second feature film draws on his own experiences as a young drummer in love with the works of jazz greats such as Charlie Parker and Buddy Rich. He has commented (Hollywood Reporter) that the movie is “trying to question what we’re willing to sacrifice in the name of art.” Chazelle developed this film from an earlier three-scene short – he could not then get funding for a full feature – which won the top short prize at the Sundance Festival.

Despite its critical acclaim and many awards (88 wins and 93 nominations), its relatively limited distribution as an independent festival film means that Whiplash is one of the lowest grossing films ever to be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar. It has been rated by IMDB users as the 40th greatest film ever made.

“cinematic adrenalin. In an era when so many films feel more refined by focus groups or marketing managers, it is a deeply personal and vibrantly alive drama.” Brian Tallerico, RogerEbert.com

“demolishes the cliches of the musical-prodigy genre, investing the traditionally polite stages and rehearsal studios of a top-notch conservatory with all the psychological intensity of a battlefield or sports arena.” Peter Debruge, Variety

. Academy Awards. BAFTA Awards Best Sound, Best Editing and Best Supporting Actor.