SPOILER ALERT… (SPOILING THE ENTIRE FILM)
Whiplash is a movie about a weird socially awkward kid who wants to become a great Jazz Drummer, should be a perfect fit. Most of the movie doesn't really make that much actual sense nor does it have any relation to Jazz, but the kid doesn't get laid throughout the entire movie, so that was pretty accurate as far as the Jazz life goes. In fact, there aren't any female characters in the entire movie with the sole exception of his girlfriend, who only likes him before he mentions to her that he loves Jazz…and then they break up.
Anyway, the kid is practicing playing fast, since that's all that matters with regards to the drums, and he gets drafted by Fletcher, the asshole band director, to join the Varsity school Jazz band. I use the term "Varsity," since there's not a single word mentioned about Art or originality throughout the film. Jazz is treated like a bench-pressing competition. Fletcher convinces the entire band that playing old corny charts will somehow make you a "Jazz Great", thus once again completely ignoring any thoughts on how literally every "Jazz Great" brought something new to the table. The one thing I agree with Fletcher on is that the band does suck. They play shitty high school charts throughout the entire film. The best part of the big band is that I'm pretty sure most "Jazz Greats" wouldn't have made it in the group. Charlie Parker would have been thrown out for chirping his reeds, Miles Davis for lack of technical master, Coltrane for questionable tuning and Monk for ..well, just being a weirdo.
The kid does better in the band, gets berated, practices, and eventually scores a big gig with the group. On the way to the gig he gets in a terrible car accident, is literally covered in blood and still makes the gig…but because he has a concussion(and is covered in blood and glass) he fucks up and then Fletcher makes fun of him. The kid loses it and attacks Fletcher and thus gets thrown out of the band. Apparently Fletcher is such a dick that he doesn't care that the kid is literally covered in blood at the gig..somehow that's not a good enough excuse.
So next, the kid testifies (secretly) in court that Fletcher is a dick and so Fletcher gets fired. Soon after the kid quits the drums and is walking around the streets of NYC when he sees Fletcher playing at a club. Fletcher is playing the lamest bossa nova I've ever heard in my life at a shitty Jazz club and we realize that THIS is apparently what it is to be a success in Jazz. THIS is the dream the kid has been chasing. I think this is the moment that the audience realizes that Fletcher has no idea what it even means to be a great artist, since he's convinced that playing old standards somehow makes you "One of The Greats."
Fletcher talks to the kid about how his being a dick was to bring out the best in the students, then he invites the kid to play at a big Jazz festival. The kid agrees. <<cue practice montage>> ..(it's like the training montage from Rocky, only much much lamer.) The kid shows up to the festival and it's a packed house(they must have bused in the senior citizens.) One of my favorite lines of the film occurs when Fletcher tells the band before the show that all the important people in Jazz world are in the audience and that this is how Lincoln Center picks new talent.(apparently someone didn't tell him that people get all those gigs from being close friend with people already in the band. Skip the shed and hit the bar with guys who have the gigs you want. Also, new talent?? That band has had the same people for the past 20 years!)
Right before they play Fletcher whispers to the kid that he knows he testified against him and got him fired, then he calls out a song that the kid hasn't ever played before in order to make him look like a dick. The kid eats shit on the tune and storms off stage, has a quick cry and then comes back to show Fletcher what's up. He calls off the tune he practiced and plays super duper fast. Fletcher is surprised and impressed and feels vindicated for his dickhead behavior. The kid finishes his drum solo and the audience is silent…probably because like most Jazz audiences they have no fucking idea what's going on at all times. If you're at a Jazz show you just wait for other people to clap and then you clap too.
My biggest take-away is the totally misguided nature illustrated by all the characters in the film. I suppose the movie inadvertently does a pretty good job at pointing out how little emphasis there is on creativity or originality in Jazz school and how misguided the kid is in thinking copying someone like Buddy Rich will somehow make him one of "The Greats" and help him will become remembered in the Jazz lineage. Too bad history forgets copy-cats. I'd say most of all the movie does the best job a portraying a certain futility… and after all, isn't that what Jazz is all about?
Great review. Whiplash is as an astounding, passionately claustrophobic and as raw a movie as you're likely to see.
ReplyDeleteYou hailed this movie! awful with no redeeming qualities
ReplyDeleteThe best and funniest review of the film
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAnyone who can half appreciate film as an art form, with depth that goes far beyond whos in it or what happens in the narrative can see Whiplash for tge outstanding film it is. If you are basing your comments on the fact that you do not feel jazz or drumming is presented correctly in the film then you are completely missing the point! Whiplash is a film that explores the humans psyche, the conflictual relationship of two characters, motivation and determination, and I for one can appreciate its excellence. ;)
ReplyDeleteThe story hinges on the idea that being a total dick to an artist makes him or her a superior artist. Bullshit. Dumb dumb premise
ReplyDeleteA premise that lots and lots of people - including artists - do not question and never will question.
DeleteThere was a lot of discussion after the film came out. It never resolved one way or the other.
You forgot to mention how much blood is shed practicing really fast!
ReplyDeleteThe most entertaining movie review I've ever read! Laughed my ass off (specially at the lame bossa nova bit). But I hope you're just writing a (very!) funny review instead of a real one. It's not a documentary about jazz, just as Amadeus is not a documentary about Mozart or the classical period. As a movie it is breathtaking, wonderful performances, very to-the-point characters (no fillers for dad or gf, just focus is on the main characters complex relationship).Technically it is also beautiful. It avoids cliches like "bad guy is fucked up in the end" or whatever. And many other great points about it. Great review though!
ReplyDeleteI can't believe any knowledgeable jazz fan would like this movie. Lame ending. JK Simmons is Joan Crawford on steroids (not literally of course=disclaimer) and the drumming is pathetic. Miles Teller's character has no real love or passion for jazz. It's more a competitive sport for him.The same could be said of the movie.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely more entertaining than the movie. Review on point.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely more entertaining than the movie. Review on point.
ReplyDeleteI saw this at the premiere at London Film Festival and the director afterwards said it was about the sheer amount of hard work needed to be any good as a musician. I think in this regard it works. But I agree there isn't actually anything very musical about the movie, I mean I wouldn't listen to the sound track
ReplyDeleteMaybe you don't need to be that miserable.. But you DO need to be capable of that kind of misery now and then, AND keep on working in spite of it.
DeleteI loved the film, but then I teach music and play in jazz bands and therefore hate the world and everything in it.
ReplyDeleteMy wife enjoyed it too. But then maybe that was to keep me quiet.
I saw it based on the many good reviews - I'm going to be generous and give it 2/10 - it was truly toe-curlingly rubbish. Should be renamed Shitlash frankly. The characters ranged from totally uninteresting to totally uninteresting.
ReplyDeleteYou actually make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this topic to be actually something which I think I would never understand. I’m looking forward for your next post..nonton film bioskop21 online subtitel indonesia lengkap drama korea terbaru
ReplyDelete[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://moviedownloadaccess1.blogspot.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.livejournal.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://moviehometheater201.bravesites.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.wikidot.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/lucifer201/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.eklablog.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.over-blog.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.beep.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.wallinside.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.postbit.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.blog.wox.cc/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.id.joe.pl/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer-201.blogspot.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer-2-0-1.blogspot.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer-2-01.blogspot.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer20-1.blogspot.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - https://sites.google.com/site/bioskop201info/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - https://sites.google.com/site/bioskop201net/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer201.yolasite.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer-201.yolasite.com/
[✔] Nonton Film Online FullMuvie HD Subtitel Indonesia Gratis Bioskop201 - http://lucifer-201.wikidot.com/
I was here to push people beyond what's expected of them ..
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ds1AnwS6y8Y
As a sign of gratitude for how my son was saved from Concussion , i decided to reach out to those still suffering from this.
ReplyDeleteMy son was diagnosed of Concussion and it was really tough and heartbreaking for me because he was my all and the symptoms were terrible, he always have Headache, and he always complain of Temporary loss of consciousness . we tried various therapies prescribed by our neurologist but none could cure him. I searched for a cure and i saw a testimony by someone who was cured and so many other with similar body problem, and he left the contact of the doctor who had the cure to Concussion . I never imagined Concussion has a natural cure not until i contacted him and he assured me my son will be fine. I got the herbal medication he recommended and my son used it and in one months he was fully okay even up till this moment he is so full of life.Concussion has a cure and it is a herbal cure, contact the doctor for more info on drwilliams098675@gmail.com on how to get the medication. Thanks to you once again admin for such an informative blog.
An fascinating dialogue is worth comment. I think that you must write more on this subject, it won't be a taboo subject however generally people are not sufficient to talk on such topics. To the next. Cheers online casino slots
ReplyDeleteWow, cool post. I'd like to write like this too - taking time and real hard work to make a great article... but I put things off too much and never seem to get started. Thanks though. Action actress
ReplyDeleteI have read your excellent post. This is a great job. I have enjoyed reading your post first time. I want to say thanks for this post. Thank you.
ReplyDeletebest cash for cars brisbane
pick up cars for cash brisbane
A good blog always comes-up with new and exciting information and while reading I have feel that this blog is really have all those quality that qualify a blog to be a one
ReplyDeleteaccident car removal
cash for accidental cars
Thanks for sharing such a great post Cash for Cars Albion is a licensed company in Queensland. We are experienced in a wide variety of services such as cash for scrap cars albion
ReplyDeleteI am very thanks to the owner of this blog I recommend to the other people come and visit this website for getting their information which you are want for more info visit cash for car removal gold coast
ReplyDeleteIf you have an old car lying around in your backyard, and you want to get rid of it; then old car removal Townsville is the best solution for you. With us, you can get your car removed and earn top cash for it in return as wellScrap Car Removal Townsville
ReplyDeleteWe provide our customers with a way to get rid of their unwanted or junk cars by providing them free car removal services and paying them up to $9,999 in instant cash for cars in Townsville.Cash for Cars Townsville
ReplyDeleteWe purchase any type of old, damaged, scrap, junk, wrecked, and unwanted vehicles for as much as up to $9,999. One of the prime benefits of choosing us is that you will also get free car removal anywhere in WangarattaCar Removal Wangaratta
ReplyDeleteMany people don't own cars because they simply can't afford them. If you happen to live in an area where it cost a lot of money to own a car then you need to find another way to get around town. Car rental services are available. You will need to have your vehicle detailed so that the company will know how much you are worth. You will then sign an agreement and get a monthly rental. This works well if you only need the car for a certain period of time.Scrap Cars Mansfield
ReplyDeleteAfter the process of cash for cars Adelaide has become more popular because they are able to provide cash for cars in the city that have some type of damage. There are many car dealerships that allow customers to simply pay cash upfront when they purchase a vehicle. These dealerships make money by selling damaged cars at auction. Some companies may require the buyer to pay a small fee if they want free towing as well. They may even provide free use of their delivery service.car disposal adelaide
ReplyDeleteIf you are looking for a place where you can get all kinds of Nissan parts at a price that is way below the market value, you should visit the Nissan Wreckers Brisbane. Located in Brisbane Queensland, Nissan Wreckers offers Nissan parts at the most affordable prices possible. Not only will you be able to save a lot of money on accessories but you will also be able to get cash for junk cars in Brisbane. And if that's not enough, you can also avail of a cash loan from the company if you are in a major financial bind.holden car wreckers near me
ReplyDeleteThe most preferable way to dispose of your old vehicle is to go for cash for cars from the government agencies. This way you will be assured of a fair price for your used car. However, since it is not common, you will not be able to find many such locations in your area. If you do not want to wait for too long and are in urgent need of cash for cars, then you can look for local cash for cars traders. These traders will be willing to buy your used vehicles at a discounted price, since they will be getting rid of it in the quickest possible manner. Although the price may seem cheap, it will still help you make some profit.cash for scrap cars townsville west
ReplyDeleteCash For Cars is one of the leading car dealers in Western Australia. They have been offering high quality service to their customers for many years. With their variety of car types and features, Cash For Cars is sure to please each and every customer with their friendly and convenient business. Cash For Cars operates seven days a week, everyday through weekends. Their friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful staff is eager to help you with whatever it is that you might need.brisbane cash for cars
ReplyDeleteWe buy vehicles provides customers an excellent opportunity to get rid of their old unwanted car fast. We help customers all over Australia by selling their cars and giving cash in return. Our services include cash for junk car, Brisbane wreckers , scrap car removal, and eco-friendly recycling.
ReplyDeleteI have recently started a blog, the info you provide on this site has helped me greatly in blogging. Thanks for all of your work and time.
ReplyDeleteRent a Car Islamabad with Driver
fantastic blog! I have ever read thank you so much keep sharing dear. Cash for cars removal Brisbane want to give service to you to sell your old cars and we pay for it we offer different services I think you must check it and contact us narangba wreckers
ReplyDeleteIf you're looking to sell your car fast, then selling to cash for cars hamilton may be the perfect option. The process of selling a car can be time-consuming and expensive, so it makes sense to use a wrecking company. In addition to the fast turn-around time, this service also offers free car removal and top-dollar cash on the spot. In addition, they're open 24 hours a day and offer free quotes.
ReplyDeleteMy response on my own website. Appreciation is a wonderful thing...thanks for sharing keep it up.
ReplyDeleteCoaster for Rent in Islamabad
If Niemann had defended himself too early there'd have been no story. What he had to do was submit. That's what the film says is the price for reaching his level. But not the only price. There's also your humanity.
ReplyDeleteThe first thing that strikes you about Tuscan Whole Milk (I got the fully loaded 128 fl oz model) is the minimalism. I spent half an hour failing to find the power switch, until my roommate, who is much more technical than I am, explained that Tuscan Whole Milk doesn't have one. The user -- he explained the design philosophy to me -- shouldn't have to know whether his Tuscan Whole Milk is on or not; it's not part of what he's trying to do. So the unit is *always* on: it stays in sleep mode until you use it, and then it goes into full power mode without any further user intervention. Talk about Steve Jobs, only even more so!
ReplyDeleteBut it's not *easy* on the user. I expected to be able to simply point and click, but I couldn't find a 'pour' icon, and it turns out there isn't a trackpad or even a mouse. Instead, the user interacts with Tuscan Whole Milk through a 'handle', a gripping device built into one side of the unit, that you insert your hand into; it can be lifted or tilted. In a way, it's very elegantly conceived: flow is controlled by angle of tilt, and flow destination by moving the unit as a whole, via its handle, to a target bowl or glass. It takes a little while to learn, but the 'pick up the handle and pour' metaphor is compelling, and radically innovative -- the biggest step forward in interface design since the glove.
Being fixated on the controlling metaphor isn't always a good thing, however. Users are used to point and click interfaces, and these should be provided as an option. And I was curious about what other software packages were available for the Tuscan Whole Milk, and how they would exploit the handle interface. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that there *aren't any*. That's right, there's no app store, no third party vendors online. And even if you found a third party app, you couldn't install it. There's no internet connectivity, not even a USB port. Tuscan Whole Milk is dedicated single-purpose hardware.
Apropos: Another reviewer says he rooted and bricked his unit. Frankly, I'm skeptical. As far as I can tell, user access to the OS is completely blocked -- I couldn't even get a shell terminal -- and I don't see how he could have done it.
Worse, Tuscan Whole Milk isn't rechargeable. There's no way even to plug it in. Once your Tuscan Whole Milk is 'empty'(indicated by the 'fluid level' on the external display reaching the bottom of the unit), you're supposed to throw it out. So it's not just single-purpose hardware, it's *disposable*. Elegance is elegance, but this is taking a nice idea way too far.
Although I'm disappointed with what was made of a very promising user interface concept, I have to mention the graphics, which almost make up for it. When you pour, the 'milk' looks absolutely convincing; the algorithm team managed something special here. The animation was so good that it actually fooled my cat, who drank some of the Tuscan Whole Milk.