Whiplash

“I’d rather die drunk, broke at 34 and have people at a dinner table talk about me than live to be rich and sober at 90 and nobody remember who I was.” God damn. Every time I watch this film, it feels like the first time.  The first scene is a masterclass in setting tone, and the cinematography and sound design are top notch. Simmons commands every scene he’s in with an almost omnipotent presence. The tension between Teller and Simmons is always palpable and really drives the story, as Simmon’s character is the personification of Nieman’s perilous drive for greatness.  This film is a raw character piece about the difference between success and greatness and how each person can choose to define these differently.  If you never know when to stop, will there ever be a top to reach?  “There are no two words in the English language more harmful than “good job”.”