New films, A Must See
AXS ENTERTAINMENT / ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT / MOVIES
February 11, 2014
Rating:
New Writer- Director, Damien Chazelle, won top honors at the Sundance Film Festival 2014, taking both the Audience Award and the Grand Jury Award with his triumphant narrative, “Whiplash”. inspired by true events.
“Whiplash” was entered as a short last year at Sundance Film Festival 2013 . At that time the full length feature version was in the Idea stage. That is a testament to the serendipitous alchemy that often occurs with new artist through the Sundance experience. As a result, “Whiplash” is now all grown up and ready for the world.
This thrilling dramatic narrative was inspired by Damien’s real life experiences of honing his skills as a drummer to become a world class jazz musician. “Whiplash” is a raw honest visceral look at what it takes not only to be a great artist, but what it takes to survive as one. Damien gives us a rare look at the relationships and obstacles one must overcome to have a point of view and to express it. He shows that success can only come to you in a permanent meaningful way, if you give it everything you’ve got. If you never give in; Never give up.
The real antagonist in this film is perhaps not the obvious. When you take a deeper look you find that, although you have family support and love, often it takes a special
relationship with a teacher with whom both parties, student and teacher, agree to commit to each other and the goal, in order to come to the point. Such is the case with Terence Fletcher, brilliantly played by J.K. Simmons, the hard-as-nails unflinching drill Sargent of a teacher who leads and conducts the award winning jazz band, where Miles, played dynamically by Miles Teller, is attending college.
The masterful strokes and observation in the writing and
execution of “whiplash” reveal the raw ability of Damien Chazelle as a new young voice. Already having a deal with Sony in the makes, distribution of “Whiplash is certain to be soon.
The most impressive observation about Damien Chazelle is his open and warm, compassionate, approachable and disarming friendliness. He appears to have the essence of youth, not just in physical years, but it also exudes from his very being. Congratulations Damien, your film will not only entertain, but “Whiplash” will enlighten and educate many a struggling artist and affirm the possible processes the road to excellence can take.
Look for “Whiplash” in theaters now.
Director: Damien Chazelle
Writer: Damien Chazelle (screenplay)
Stars: Miles Teller, Melissa Benoist, J.K. Simmon, Paul Reiser
