On the surface this film is pretty grim - tense situations - major characters who are presented as maniacal self-involved jerks - certainly NOT a romantic comedy. Although Fletcher is presented as an oppressive tyrant - we see in a couple of scenes that off-the job he can be kind and "human". Is the tyrant just a role he plays? - to achieve an objective? On the other hand Andrew does not show many signs of humanity - but is still likable since he is the victim of Fletcher's fury. I think the writer/director is trying to make a point - or a few points. The film has so many underlying themes I am not sure what point(s) the writer/director was trying to make. Certainly one point is that to be great or at the top in any endeavor or profession - dedication and sacrifice are required. I think many people will be willing to stop there. But lurking in the shadows is the big question - is it worth it? When you consider the sacrifices made by both major characters in pursuit of their goals- for most rational people the answer would be "NO". There was a similar theme in the film "La La Land" - which was by the same writer/director - Damien Chazelle. And both films featured some really good jazz. Although I knew who Buddy Rich was before I saw this film - I wonder how many other viewers did. Something to think about.
Review of Whiplash
