Whiplash is a 2014 movie about a drummer named Andrew Neiman, who studies jazz at Shaffer Conservatory in New York. Neiman has one goal in mind, which is to be the best jazz drummer in the world. While at Shaffer Conservatory he meets a man named Terence Fletcher, who has a very frightening teaching method but is effective towards the right person. Neiman can use Fletcher’s method of teaching to make him a better musician. This movie has one of the best endings I have ever watched and has very impactful scenes that will be some of the most entertaining things you will see.

Near the beginning of the film, Fletcher chooses Andrew Neiman to join his jazz band. Fletcher manipulates Neiman into becoming a good enough musician to be a core member of the band. As the film continues, the audience watches Fletcher use his odd teaching method to make Neiman the best. The audience is also able to learn what Terence Fletcher’s goal is. His goal is to bring out the greatness in all of his students, but he was never able to achieve this because his students usually get demotivated because of his teaching method. As the movie ends, Fletcher reaches his goal and Neiman gets closer to his.

Whiplash is easily one of my favorite movies that I have ever seen. What I enjoyed most was the mix of heartbreaking and thrilling scenes. Seeing how much Andrew Neiman was being affected by Fletcher, either in a good or bad way, was very entertaining. For example, as the viewer continues to watch the film, they can clearly see the effect that Fletcher has on Neiman. It was also fun to watch Neiman change throughout the movie. For example, the audience can witness Neiman do actions near the end of the film that he wouldn’t have done at the beginning. With this, Whiplash becomes a very meaningful and engaging movie.

Overall, Whiplash is a great movie to watch, which I recommend for anyone to watch when they have the time. My favorite part of the movie was the variety of scenes that can instantly change your mood throughout the movie. Some scenes will make you sad while others fill you with excitement. Another notable part of the movie that I enjoyed was the character development that the audience is able to see Andrew Neiman go through. I can assure anyone that this movie will not be a disappointment but instead will be a great experience.

-Matthew R.

Whiplash is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library.