Whiplash was a big winner on the festival circuit this year and has quickly become one of 2014’s hottest films, thanks to some superb performances and impressive direction from relative newcomer Damien Chazelle.
Miles Teller stars in the film as Andrew Neiman, an aspiring drummer who is enrolled at the most prestigious and cutthroat music conservatory in the United States. His determination to be the best ends up catching the eye of revered music teacher Terrence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons), who leads one of the greatest jazz ensembles ever.
Andrew is asked to join, but from there, he is subjected to endless verbal and physical abuse by Terrence as the teacher attempts to turn the 19-year old musician into the best drummer he can be. Will Andrew be able to live up to Fletcher’s lofty expectations without losing his soul in the process?
Whiplash is one of my personal favorites of 2014, so it was a real thrill for me to chat with J.K. Simmons, Miles Teller and writer/director Damien Chazelle while they were at the Four Seasons Hotel in Los Angeles, California during the film’s press day. You can tell from watching the movie that a lot of blood, sweat and tears were involved in its making and from talking to the stars and director, it was apparent that everyone was very proud of how the finished product turned out.
Check out our exclusive interview in the video above and be sure to catch Whiplash as it’s now playing in theatres everywhere!