JK Simmons is one of those actors that makes an impression every time he’s on screen, but his best role up to the date this was published, won him an Oscar for being a legendary nemesis few who ever watch “Whiplash” will ever forget. The jazz-centric drama, which also features Miles Teller at his best arrives on Netflix this month.

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Teller stars as Andrew, a young drummer who gets his big shot an music conservatory, where he meets Terrence Fletcher, an instructor who epitomizes the role of a harsh mentor with his cruel actions towards his students. But Andrew won’t back down, which results in a memorable collision where they’re mutual disdain for each other doesn’t allow for surrender.

JK Simmons is an absolute menace here. He dominates the frame where his mannerisms serve as a meter over how angry he is. And when he unloads, it’s not rage, it’s a controlled and brutal assault of the psyche of his students. When we’re watching him direct his ensemble, we’re observing his frustration permeating through the screen and its an uncomfortable experience that you also can’t peel your eyes away from.

Whiplash is excellence, but if you’re not locked into the jazz sequence, there is a chance you might not connect, but the tone is so tense that it will likely draw you in and won’t let go.

It’s hard to believe this film is already 10 years old, but it was lost during Marvel’s ascension and the Hunger Games franchise. But this is fine drama and if you’re somehow not a a JK Simmons fan before now, you will be after watching “Whiplash”.

Whiplash

Grade (2014): A

Grade (2024): A

What did you think of “Whiplash” let me know in the comments.

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