Whiplash

Whiplash is a film which is an explosion of rudeness, determination, music and good jazz. It tells the story of Andrew Neiman, a 19-year-old drummer who has big dreams. He studies at a conservatoire and hopes to become the world’s next Buddy Rich. One day, Terence Fletcher, the most recognised teacher in the school, asks him to join his jazz band. Then, his nightmare begins! Terence's method of teaching is questionable. He pushes his students so hard to go beyond their limits. He attacks them verbally and physically. Throughout the film, Andrew cries, sweats and bleeds (literally) to make his dreams come true. This emotional roller coaster picture is more than a film. It's a film that has valuable lessons everyone should take and incorporate into their lives:

Never give up

Andrew doesn’t give up in spite of his mentor’s abuses. Encouragement is not always by your side in life. The tough days at school, work or home could be very discouraging, and adding the abusive words of your boss – or, in this case, Neiman's instructor Fletcher – could drive someone into a corner and break them. That isn't the case with Neiman. His will to be great defeats the failures and the discouragement. Therefore, turn any negative vibes from life into positive energy just like Neiman did.

Though love works

Yes, Fletcher was out of line at times and to some degree abusive to his students, but could Neiman accomplish the improvements without the instruction of Fletcher? Fletcher's determination to push his students to their full potential made Neiman realise his ability to become a great drummer. This is called tough love, which means helping somebody who has problems by dealing with them in a strict way because you believe it is good for them! Maybe that’s why Fletcher was constantly yelling to his students.

For success, a balancer always needed in life

We see Neiman’s girlfriend and father in the movie, but eventually, the two become an item. The reason? Neiman becomes obsessive about becoming a great drummer. He believes relationships, like the one with his girlfriend, will get in the way of his dreams. This is a big mistake. People need someone to keep them calm, and that was his girlfriend for Neiman. To get straight to the point, don't cut people from your life! People around you help you find balance in your life.

Parents are irreplaceable

It's so great to see Neiman's father stand behind his boy throughout the whole ordeal. Neiman should not worry because parents are always there for you!

Follow your dream, no matter what

This lesson is probably the most obvious from the film as Neiman constantly grabs his drumsticks to reach his goal of becoming one of the greatest. The road is tough, as it is with anything in life, but you have to go after it and fight every inch to reach your dream. Neiman didn't stop. Why should you?