Last week the 87th Academy Award nominees were announced. As expected favorites such as American Sniper, Boyhood, Birdman and Selma all were chosen as this years best picture candidates. Among these popular films, an unexpected pick found its way into the mix: Whiplash. First off, this film is a roller coaster of intensity. Whiplash depicts an extreme college music relationship between student drummer Andrew Nieman (played by Miles Teller) and Jazz Professor Terrence Fletcher (played by J.K Simmons). Both actors deliver unprecedented performances, which have gained recognition through the Sundance Film Festival as well as the Golden Globes where J.K Simmons received an award for best supporting actor. Throughout the film Simmons powerfully crafts lines such as, “There are no two words in the English language more harmful than good job” as well as “I was there to push people beyond what’s expected of them. I believe that’s an absolute necessity.” From a technical side Whiplash demonstrates masterful editing and directing. First time director Damien Chazelle cements himself as someone to watch out for in the future. Personally, It has been a while since I have seen a film with such a great intensity. Whiplash is a wonderful surprise across the board. Although I think Boyhood will take best picture I wouldn’t be surprised if this film has one more surprise left up its sleeve.
Watch the trailer here.
