Whiplash - The Layers Beneath an Abusive Relationship

[@pixelbrushcafe6531]

I get PTSD watching this. I was in a similar jazz band with an autocratic and emotionally abusive director in a NE Ohio college back in the nineties. Old school - he really did play in the Buddy Rich band. Tantrums, screaming, thrown chairs and making instrumentalists like sax players cry. We all said that he “scared us to be great” and all honesty some players did end up playing for Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller, Maynard Ferguson but really, it was a heavy price. He ended up dying from his 2nd heart attack by the late nineties in the end. There was a tribute concert with some of those stars coming back to play but I never went to see it and I never looked back.

[@elitheratman3730]

I have a very similar experience. My high school drama director was verbally, emotionally, and at some points physically abusive. He would tear people apart on stage over the smallest things and would even turn us actors against each other. We were perfect, but it was purely because the fear of messing up was stronger than anything. Bastard eventually got put on administrative leave for lining up all the girls on stage and judging them like cattle (which counted as both bullying and sexual harassment). I have never hated a person as much as I hated that man

[@0123vegeta]

Good for u man and fuck that guy

[@casedistorted]

@@elitheratman3730 we had a high school drama teacher who was a female and was very similar, she was not THAT extreme but everyone was afraid of her and messing up. If she liked you though you didn’t have to worry about messing up, that is if she had a crush on you ( because she was a BIG woman ), she was a fantastic drama/acting teacher and great at film study, I learned a lot from her, but what I learned also was I could never be in that industry from what I learned happens behind the scenes. Too much emotional abuse.

[@karlboyack1921]

You have a very positive outlook on the ending... I always thought of it as a perfect mixed bag of triumph and horror. Triumph in the sense that Andrew didn't get outright beaten by Fletcher, but horror at how Fletcher seemed to have Andrew under his thumb by the end of it. It sort of makes it all cyclical. Great video!

[@dominikweber4305]

Actually during the closeup right at the end, when fletchers eyes get that look into them, i thought he was going to lose it and attack him right there because he made some mistake that either no one noticed except fletcher or that didn't even exist

[@wailer27]

It's not a happy ending though... the implication is that he's lost a part of himself in order to turn into this performer and the look on his dad's face is more horrified than in awe... The whole thing reminds me of a couple of abusive managers I had in the past and you do definitely start to mimic their negative traits despite hating the person, but also there's still something to be said for that kind of treatment making you a better person or performer in the end.

[@Ubreakable-lr2dk]

dude it takes datamination and suffering to be great he was a raw diamond he had to shape him because he saw potential he was testing his limits seeing if he is passionated enough to succeed in this rough world we all see the glory in the successful people but dont see the blood and sweat it takes to get to the top. For instance as a bodybuilder to be the best or in EVERY physiscal sport u have to use enhancing drugs that destroys ur body . U cant reach it without sacrifice

[@TheFreshTrumpet]

I appreciate this perspective, the movie left a bad taste in my mouth after first watching it. I felt like the film took a toxic abusive relationship and gave it a happy ending without really reconciling with the abuse. Andrew became what Fletcher always wanted, partially bc he was willing to go through the abuse until he had a chance at getting the upper hand on his abuser, but still seems to fall right into the abuser's lap in the same move. Plus the idea that anyone who quits bc they're being abused wasn't really made of the stuff of legends to begin with... idk seemed like Fletcher's abusive scenes get a lot of love by the comment sections that are entertained and supportive of the expression of power. I'd be really curious to know if the filmmakers ever discussed this in interviews or anything

[@danielhart7435]

As someone who played sports, this doesn’t even seem abusive.

[@TheFreshTrumpet]

@@danielhart7435 I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on what you do and don't consider to be verbally/emotionally abusive. It's easier to recognize physical abuse bc it's easier to recognize the harm it causes, but I'd argue that a lot of coaches toe the line between being tough and being verbally abusive in the same way many authoritarian parents do also on another level, most people who have been abused do not recognize that's what they experienced, sometimes bc they’re uncomfortable with the “victim” label or they think the abusive behavior was good and helped positively shape them, or bc they respect the person doing the abusing too much to criticize them. which ig is my way of saying, I'm not surprised an athlete does not see any of this character's behavior as abusive, but it absolutely fkn is. Like, undoubtedly abusive, from the field of psychology's POV. Sorry for the ted talk, I'm just passionate about this topic (and just a little high lol)

[@shan2355]

@@TheFreshTrumpet your two comments are on point

[@mustafaamin9516]

The ending isn't supposed to be a happy ending, but I can understand why some might consider it as such. While this video certainly gives an interesting perspective, it's not the one that most people, and the director/writer himself envisioned. Essentially, it's meant to show how Niemann has actually fallen right into Fletcher's hands, not liberated from them. Because Fletcher's technique has "worked" on turning Niemann into a machine, Niemann will ultimately keep coming back, and the abuse will continue. The face that Niemann's father makes at the end is not meant to be one of surprise, but one of horror, because even after all that's happened, Niemann still finds himself going back to Fletcher. I believe the writer in an interview stated that if Whiplash were to have a sequel (which it won't), it would be about Niemann's downfall, as the push to be the best would throw him down an even darker path, and eventually kill him, and all of this would be the fault of Fletcher continuing to influence him.

[@hey-go4dg]

I remember the director of the movie saying that the ending is actually dark. You see the father crying in end not cause of his sons perfomance but cause of the fear that his son was turning into another Charlie Parker.

[@saturngenesis1306]

What a meticulously planned, coherent, and clear-cut analysis. Well done man.

[@TheWritersView]

Thank you! 🎥

[@RellyYu]

Ikr watching this today it still amazes me, it most have took at least an entire day to conduct

[@JXZX1]

The director and writer himself believes Andrew will die a hollow, pathetic no-name man in his 30s, and Fletcher will simply toss him aside and think he and his egomaniacal personality destruction “won.” Not a happy ending in the least. Andrew would be better off if he had a high school part-timer teaching him how to drum than Fletcher. The former, at least, allows Andrew to be more than just a machine for Fletcher to project his own worth on.

[@happypapi1903]

Or if he'd joined a band or became a studio/touring drummer in LA/Nashville/Atlanta. He's certainly got the chops for it. I think he would have been much happier and more fulfilled going out on the road and just gigging playing all styles of music, not just esoteric jazz. Why aspire to be Buddy Rich when you can be the next Kenny Arnoff or Hal Blaine?

[@onetimeiateanindonesianguy6183]

You just made me feel better about quitting my last job.

[@lorenzobaxter]

Not a pathetic no name. He would become great like he wanted, just he would die a "lonely drug addict in his 30s" that's why the ending is a mixed bag. He attains pure mastery, but at what cost?

[@dhritidutta6231]

But you don't know that after watching the film. For me the ending seemed like a victory.

[@pepijnstreng4643]

I thought your analysis was spot on until you got to the ending. Your analysis of that sounds like someone getting back into a toxic relationship and saying "this time, he's REALLY changed!". When Fletcher says "the real Charlie Parker would never be discouraged", he's not just getting Andrew to come back, he's telling him there's a special class of people ("Charlie Parkers") who are better than everyone else, and the only way to be one of them is to endure all abuse he throws at you. The humiliation at the concert isn't just revenge, it's also a test of Neimans loyalty. When Andrew still comes back after that level of bullying, Fletcher knows all the strings are still attached and stronger than ever.

[@jetson_]

I always wondered why I couldn’t rewatch this movie even though I enjoyed it. I was 24 years old and used to work in security and we got sent a new manager at one point to fix issues that had been on going for awhile. He wanted us to be armed and he was only going to select a few of us to go get our armed license. He ended up selecting me to be one of the few and he said he was going to train me himself since he was a certified level 3 instructor so I said okay. This dude had me running, diving, sliding and then expect 100% accuracy. The first session was cool. He conversed with me, got to know me and said I had leadership qualities. I did some target practice with him and he said I was a good shot and since he trained SWAT teams (so he says) he told me he wanted to line me up for a career in SWAT since he had “connections”. After that day things got a lot harder. He had me doing things way out of the scope of what a normal level 3 cert class would be doing but he kept telling me he wanted me to be the best and not like these assholes that get people killed when they draw their weapon. He yelled and screamed at me when I missed my shots telling me to “get ready for prison because you just killed a mother of 2 and they rape guys like you in prison” after 3 hours on the rage running around and getting my heart rate up to take shots under pressure I’d tell him I needed to go because this was only suppose to take an hour he would call me a quitter and useless. I guess I kept coming back because whenever I’d hit a bullseye he’d hit me on the back and yell that’s what I’m talking about! The approval from him was addicting and he kept saying he wanted to make me as deadly as possible. But after the approval didn’t last long. I kept getting sent home from the range with new essays to write that needed to be turned in by the morning. Knowing full well these weren’t realistic deadlines. But every time I failed he’d tell me about a former student who didn’t give up and how he’s some police chief or some bull shit. Or he would pull me off my post and give it to another guy saying “I don’t need dull knives.” And then send me home for some infraction. After I got my license and a couple months of working as a shift lead I finally had enough of his constant yelling and belittling. Anytime a guy made a mistake he would call me from his office telling me to get my fucking officers in line and to unfuck this situation do you understand me? I thought I made you better than this bullshit. I finally got the guts to tell him I was gonna step down and that I didn’t think his leadership style was right. He unloaded on me using every personal thing I’ve told him about my confidence and past mental health issues against me. He threatened to get me fired for the company and told me I was worthless and to never mention that he was my instructor because I was an embarrassment. He then told me he had enough mercy to not fire me though because I had a wife and kid that needed “his money”. “They shouldn’t have to suffer for your incompetence.” My dumb ass stayed at that job until he eventually got fired and I had a mental breakdown because I didn’t really fully recover after he left. I was a mean and toxic person to my co workers and then eventually broke down from the constant “you’re not good enough” voice in my head. I had to work through it in therapy after but that was the worst year I’ve ever had.

[@rin3864]

This is such a sag story you never deserved any of that ! My heart goes with you I wish you a good recovery and nothing but a great future to you and your family ! You can be proud of you for breaking the circle !!

[@ozzybux]

Boo hoo. Sorry, but you didn’t have what it takes. This is the problem with people these days ...no mental toughness, no resilience.

[@jetson_]

@@ozzybux Yeah and I'm better for it lmao.

[@0123vegeta]

Damn... Good that he got fired, nothing wrong with stepping down. You do you man

[@danberry4647]

He was actually on time by the third try

[@nickb6425]

While I rewatched yesterday he seemed on time at certain moments but also what happened was the band slowed down/picked it up for him at times. You can even hear them skipping notes. It's a mental thing; the rhythm section usually has a huge influence on how the other musicians play and the trick is to ignore that. (Although you could say Fletcher shoulda chewed them out for adjusting for him but that wasn't his focus lol)

[@drummerboy0620]

But the strings are still on him at the end. He falls back under his control at the end when Fletcher starts cuing him during the solo

[@kaylag5043]

Teachers like this get results by changing your worldview. They condition you to see succes in your specific area as the only thing that matters in the world, which is why you'll end up enduring their abuse and everything else because you don't see any other path.

[@jackdonovan554]

It seems that fletcher used rage as a medium to overcome errors. This is a dangerous teaching element, but can used to successfully attain a desired goal. The problem is that it can ruin a person's ability to accept others who werent abused and do not have that rage. Rage should not be used to teach unless the student is aware that they are being taught thru it. Otherwise they will associate it with things unrelated to the positive use of rage, and will be unable to form productive relationships with others.

[@caydenjones5994]

And then, Andrew quit to start his own band. But he wasn’t as evil as Fletcher. He was worse. He accepted musicians only that could play as good or better than him. And if you slipped up, you were out. Eventually, Andrew went psychotic. He strangled his Trumpet 1 for falling slightly behind the tempo. He was sent to an insane asylum for the rest of his life, and was never heard from again.

[@AdrianAnonymous10]

This would be an amazing sequel

[@RatPfink66]

A more realistic timeline would be that he patches it up with his gf, then batters her into a coma when she says "you're just like that bastard instructor of yours."

[@stinkythesilliestman]

what the hell is wrong with you

[@therealpenns7313]

I remember when I was like 7 my father showed me the intro, after my fathers death I’ve been watching all the films he tried to put me on to when I was younger, I always wanted to watch the full movie and now im 16 years old im in love with the art of film, I found the dvd in my brothers room I took it and watched it and holy fuck whiplash is one of my favorite films of all time along with a lot of other films my father showed me, thanks dad. :)

[@TheWritersView]

Your father had great taste!🎥

[@ekaterinastaneva9922]

I always felt the ending was an act of mutual validation. Andrew saying - yes you were right all along, your brutality is the only way to push the best to fulfill their absolute potential. And Fletcher saying - and you will be among the best one day, you are special and that is why I chose you, tonight you proved it.

[@mr.authentic2505]

No, you see when the father see him performed he knows he lost his son. Knowing its all ready too late. And thus later on Neeman becoming an enigma.

[@ARPerez]

Great explanation man, I was onto some of the more nuanced plot points underneath the story but you just gave it a whole new perspective for me. I was actually watching this video on Virtual-Arte but I got disconnected and had to find it so I could finish it. Can't wait for new content from you. All the best

[@TheWritersView]

AR Perez thank you so much!!

[@calvinmark2112]

I really like your interpretation of this ending, but I don’t think it’s exactly the case. Something I noticed is that even during the drum solo, Neimann still followed Fletcher’s lead. He slowed down when Fletcher signaled it, he sped up when Fletcher signaled it. He wasn’t playing for himself, he is playing for Fletcher. Another thing I find interesting is not necessarily with the film itself, but with the people who talk about it. I see a lot of people referring to Neimann by his first name-“Andrew”-and Fletcher by his last name. I find that interesting because it seems like even the audience is caught up in Fletcher’s abuses; why do they give Terence respect by calling him by his last name but fail to give Neimann respect by calling him by his first?

[@pepijnstreng4643]

Good observation on how he still follows Fletcher! It shows their relationship is still the same as it was before

[@tedmichaels]

I really enjoyed this perspective. I love how you show the screenplay during dialogue scenes. Nice work.

[@TheWritersView]

Thank you so much!

[@niklas3595]

I don't agree with the ending of the video. I think Neyman is still looking for approval, as one can see in the look he gives Fletcher after he finishes the drum solo. But otherwise I think this was an excellent analysis on the movie.

[@antondelacruz9362]

Great analysis of one of my favorite films. I was so surprised because i agreed with nearly all the points but was completely of the opposite opinion at the end. I thought it was a sad ending that proved fletcher had always been right, andrew showed everything before had been worth it, and theyd both do it all again if need be. Imho, andrew had to break the rules, ignore propriety, and publicly challenge fletcher to be able to pull off his virtuoso performance. Had he been able to play only for himself, he wouldnt have needed to do it in a battle of wills with fletcher. It was the exact same andrew whom we had seen cursing fletcher out and trying to play after a car crash: angry, impatient, ignoring social norms, trying to be the best no matter what. The kinda guy who treats his girl like crap to be great is like the kinda guy who treats his students like crap for the same reason. Would love to know your thoughts on this.

[@TheWritersView]

Definitely agreed. I see the ending much different now compared to when I made this a while back. I definitely like this version of the ending better and it honestly makes more sense given the deeper meaning beneath the film.

[@antondelacruz9362]

@@TheWritersView oh great, i thought you might have another way to look at it, but im happy to agree as well. The smiles exchanged at the end are awesomely deranged, no? I dont know what kind of movies you are into, but i really like these simple but extreme characters. You might enjoy locke starring tom hardy. If you did a piece about it i wouldnt mind either *coughcough* Either way hope to keep seeing more of your content and thank you for replying :D

[@avocadoaficiando]

In that last scene from the movie that showcases Andrew's skills and his "rise", there's some interesting camera action where the videographer goes back and fourth between Andrew's drumming and Terence's conducting in really rapid sequence. It felt like the camera was highlighting the power struggle between the two of them. In the end, the camera finally settles on Andrew and in doing so, it feels like the torch has been passed. He come out on top in this epic battle of David and Goliath as a Phoenix rising. Very Shakespearean.

[@nickb6425]

This may have been the most detailed analysis I've seen of this movie I love so much! Really great points even just the nuance of Fletcher mispronouncing Neimann and extracting personal info. One thing I'd say is even though Andrew is playing for himself in the end, I still think Fletcher wanted to make one final attempt to see if he could mold Andrew and control him to be one of the greats; even though he tricked him. That can be why he tricked him. "The next Charlie Parker would never be discouraged". Have a great day!

[@Scholar333]

Love this channel, no heavy effects, nothing unnecessary. Straight to the point and very well said. Don't change man, there's very few people like you.

[@TheWritersView]

The kind words mean a lot! Thank you for your support 🎥

[@MrNospaces]

Where's the joy? Must one be an abused learner to reach that joy? I think not. And what is the best? Who is to judge? Are those who judge actually helping? This film uses one aspect of jazz: the big band drummer in the "Buddy Rich" mold. Given the scope of jazz music, this narrow view used for the drama of these relationships. That's a tried and true plot technique. I'm glad you've explored some of the layers of this abusive relationship. I think there are probably many more layers. Personally, I would have walked.

[@amuginho7535]

I think in one of his interviews the director said that he imagined Neimann as if he is an athlete. When it comes to music, you are right. Who is to say this is the best? But strangely the relationship resembles one between a coach and his/her athlete. If this was a sports movie, then I would be even more confused to reach a judgement whether this abuse was necessary or not.

[@t.f_2315]

I used to play piano and go for classes, I was never going to major in it I just did it as an extracurricular, as well as my family had a strong musical background so my dad encouraged me to do these classes. I had a teacher who used to beat, pinch, slap and ridicule me since I was 8 years old. He used to do it to me more than the other students because I did have some talent, but its not my passion. I never told my parents until years later and my dad dosent believe me because the teacher is one of his close friends. This movie actually gave me some insight into why he did that, so I can become a great musician, but thats not the way to approach things especially with a kid.

[@rocaydran]

there's something special about how andrew *chooses* to see fletcher at the club i think. there's this idea that the power and control fletcher held over andrew is still there even six months later and he cannot stop himself from seeing him and falling back in to the abusive patterns that have almost become comfort to him. this reflects the idea that fletcher gives andrew purpose and his validation and praise makes him feel accomplished; his connection to fletcher is so deeply rooted in him by this point that without him he has nothing and needs him to have motivation and strive for greatness.

[@ruby71406]

really great video!! When it comes to Fletcher's weaponization of Andrew's trauma, I feel like he's specifically drawing on a fear of abandonment/disapproval stemming from Andrew's mother leaving, and applying it to himself. In a similar vein, he frequently contrasts himself with Andrew's actual father, whether or not Andrew picks up on it. Fletcher belittles Andrew's father for his presumedly failed career (himself leading one of the top jazz orchestras in the country) and conducts himself in stark contrast to Andrew's father's passivity/nervousness. he wants to cement himself as someone from whom Neiman is desperate for approval. Much like other commenters, I had a far different interpretation of the movie's conclusion. I interpreted Fletcher's trap as less of a revenge attempt and more of a test -- he wanted to see if Neiman would be discouraged. We can see Neiman realizing this as his father hugs him (a hug he doesn't reciprocate), or at least remembering their conversation at the bar if not connecting the dots. I also feel like Andrew's dad's expression at the end was more of a blend of shock, pride, and horror. Shock and pride at his son's immense talent, and horror that he's succumbing to a very dangerous obsession and relationship. I think the whole question this movie is asking, though shying away from answering, is whether intense obsession and dedication is admirable or frightening -- and also, questioning the morality of Fletcher's ethos. Is immense pressure and abuse justified by the talent and drive it results in?

[@RatPfink66]

I think the answer is ambivalent because the facts are ambivalent. Excellence writes its own rules. It punishes those who follow its rules, but it destroys those who break them. Under those rules, both obsession and abuse can be justified even when not necessary, and necessary even when not justified.

[@cartesian_doubt6230]

Anyone who has been to military basic training understands the movie in a totally different light.

[@RellyYu]

Fletcher himself stated there are other ways to teach for perfection this way just works for him the best and it worked

[@happypapi1903]

I often wonder if Andrew's dad had seen Led Zeppelin live and he's now seeing John Bonham reincarnated in his son in this Moby Dick like solo.

[@henrikhansen1023]

@The Writer's View 5:41 "Not exactly - see this is simply the allusion the Fletcher wanted to give Andrew all along - because when i brings in somebody a former class mate of Andrew actually and allows him to take Andrews spot right in front of his eyes" This is contradicted later on when Fletcher reveals to Andrew that [quote] "All Connolly ever was to me was incentive for you". But still....great vid !

[@kierrahogan4759]

What?!?! “Not for approval?!?!?!” Review the last scene of the movie again. The zoomed in eye contact was ABSOLUTELY the eager awaiting for Fletcher’s validation to which Fletcher emphatically returned.

[@Underground.Rabbit]

The calculating eye Fletcher gives off after noticing something in Neiman is straight up PTSD flashbacks me.

[@dabreezec3237]

We celebrate greatness, but we shun how it is made. The cost is great.

[@TheSamaa1997]

In my opinion, in the ending he's still a puppet

[@dottaquesova9399]

I just realized this is the most popular video on your channel, keep going bro I really like to hear your point of view

[@TheWritersView]

Dottaquesova Thank you I really appreciate it! More videos coming soon!

[@caluminnes579]

I cannot agree with that analysis of the ending. To think that his dad and fletcher have any similar expression is ridiculous. That’s pure horror on his dads face…this movies ending is depressing asf everyone that made it agrees 😂

[@Matthew_Klepadlo]

Remember: to play a wrong note, is insignificant. To play without passion: inexcusable.

[@rohan.khurana31]

i love how all of these review videos end with the finale of the movie

[@zeeschelp]

I agreed with all of it, except i dont think the strings were detached at the end

[@urmanascrewed]

That interpretation of the ending is how I hope it paned out for the characters. I could also see it being Andrew still desperate for Fletcher's approval, but there are some things that make this less likely to me.

[@ltcrescent4011]

the funny thing is I feel like the final scene is a callback to 'are you rushing or dragging', with neiman once again rushing (playing caravan, a fast paced song instead of the slow paced song they were meant to play), but this time, neiman is playing to his own tempo not fletcher's.

[@noshowjoe6596]

I didn't really get the vibe to that he was trying to make him his "puppet" . I felt like he wanted build Neemen into his ideal musician but in order to do so. He needed to be broken down and rebuilt from the ground up.

[@zcf1989]

You better get a 5 on that English exam next week

[@tedmichaels]

Did he get a 5?

[@zcf1989]

Check back July 15

[@ozzybux]

Listen, greatness is not the destiny of just anyone, it is reserved for special people, and those people will do whatever it takes to achieve it. Make no mistake, it requires great sacrifice, so he lost nothing in the end in terms of himself. He merely committed to the art, and sacrificed the rest. That was what he ultimately wanted. Good for him. If you want to achieve greatness, then go find your Fletcher.

[@alexamarchione4062]

Your channel is extremely underrated. Your work is perfect and intensely detailed. :)

[@connordallesandro8536]

You are such a underrated creator just stumbled upon this video and it was truly amazing I was captivate the entire time keep up the great work

[@TheWritersView]

I truly appreciate that, thank you! New videos coming very soon 🎥

[@tjjordan4207]

I see this movie as a warning of what happens when someone gives in to an abusive relationship. While Terence Fletcher is a great teacher, he isn't a good person.

[@HokiHumby]

i haven't seen the film. im waiting to watch it for myself on a special occasion. i have, however seen a lot of content on the film, both clips and actual film content. i think the final scene with his solo - fletcher understands what he's seeing and hearing. his father, on the other hand, is likely more scared than proud (albeit likely proud as well) to see how much his son was consumed by his passion/obsession. nonetheless, he had become Great.

[@soravsgoku123]

But he LOOKS to fletcher for approval and is so relieved when he gets it

[@edwardpamintuan]

Fletcher taught Andrew (in an abusive way) that on the journey to greatness there is no permanent position, no finish line, no perfection, no excuses, no discouragement; only sacrifice, dedication and drive. Andrew comes from a conventional and comfortably successful family but Andrew was not raised with the mindset needed to hang with the world's best. Fletcher knows all this about Andrew, hes had many students like him and he tries to break Andrew of his mindset. Andrew, in the final scene decides not to make excuses, does not get discouraged, TAKES his chair, TAKES control with confidence and breaks beyond what he thought was he was capable of. Fletcher has to help Andrew contain the beast but Andrew finally gets it. Fletcher recognizes it, the first flickers of Andrews greatness.

[@Ccm2019]

People here don’t know the price of winning. It’s scary but this is all the things that matter.

[@noah98403]

His dad def wasn’t watching in amazement I see it more as a stare of worry as he sees his sons obsession take him over and lead him down the lifestyle that he’s afraid of and becoming more like Fletcher who he hates I also think fletchers a lot more deliberate in his actions than you think. Although him tricking Andrew is definitely revenge at first shot I think that he knew that this was the final make or break moment and I think he knew what he was doing

[@x0UncleSam0x]

I don't think he was independent in the end to the degree you indicate. His facial expression awaited Fletcher's approval and grinned when he got it.

[@yogabbagabba2202]

The kid wasn’t out of tune he didn’t know if he was or not that was the issue

[@yousefsalym3371]

What else can i say, i have had very very very similar fletcher in my life. He want you to do good be a star not for you but for him but you both still get something in return.

[@randomstuff508]

I like this movie for the simple fact that it can weed out and expose abusers. If someone claims that they don't understand or see the abuse happening, what does that say about them?

[@matheusvagliengodonin5439]

amazing video and analysis!

[@henrikhansen1023]

@The Writer's View 9:20 "It is the perfect plot for revenge" This is where most commentators are all wrong. Sorry, but you COMPLETELY underestimate Fletcher here. It was the only way for Fletcher to fulfill his mission of being successful creating the next Charlie Parker by using Andrew. He was STILL on it - he wanted Andrew to reinvent himself (Andrew) detached from himself (Fletcher) - what Andrew did on stage in the end was EXACTLY all that he had ever hoped for. Detached from his (Fletcher's) approval - becoming the next Charlie Parker ! Notice his smile when turning his back on the band facing the audience - it is COMPLETELY genuine - and his threat at Andrew is only to provoke him to pus himself even further. Remember that Andrew's career was already collapsed - Fletcher would have nothing to gain from reaffirming this fact - but what he could do was to reestablish himself by provoking Andrew to reestablish himself as well....as the next Charlie Parker. And he was betting all that was left of his own diminishing career on making this come true. It was just beautiful!!

[@enormousenoch]

Bro, Fletcher is a musician, not an actor. Andrew made him lose his job at a prestigious arts school: a sanctuary for his sadistic pleasures. He couldn't have cared less about Andrew's potential when his focus was on his humiliation and demise. Yes, he was genuinely happy when Andrew went beast mode, but that doesn't mean it was some grand plan to make him the next Charlie Parker. This could be a possibility but I think its digging for something that's just not there

[@henrikhansen1023]

@@enormousenoch You have obviously not taken into consideration what Fletcher said at the bar. All Fletcher cared about was creating a new Charlie Parker. He could have lost all that he had left after his demise at Shaefer pursuing your revenge scheme. He DID decide to jeopardize it - but not for revenge. All he cared about was creating his new his new Charlie Parker - and decided to have one last go at with Andrew it using his 'approach'. He decided to put Andrew on what Sun Tzu refers to as Death Ground: Survive or Die !

[@enormousenoch]

@@henrikhansen1023 you are idealizing Fletcher's intentions. The reality is that the Charlie Parker dialogue served only as bait for Neiman, and he took it. The end result could have gone either way, but to definitively say Fletcher intended for him to become the next Parker is foolishly idealistic.

[@henrikhansen1023]

@@enormousenoch Then how come Fletcher looked so pleased when Andrew demonstrated that he was able to go the extra mile? No - the alleged revenge plot was the bait. To lure Andrew out of his childhood and claim the position as a full fledged jazz musician in his own right independent of the approval of him (Fletcher) Had the revenge plot as you allege succeeded then the both of the would have failed - now the both of them became a success. You underestimate to which levels Fletcher was about to go to achieve the success of his mission: To create the new Charlie Parker. Having a last go at Andrew was his last straw on which he was ready to bet the farm - and won. From the perspective of the both of them - because both of them really gave up their humanity. Traded it to become jazz legends. Which is displayed by the color of Andrew's suit becoming darker and darker to in the end as dark as the suit of Fletcher.

[@johnnynguyen9240]

I know that many people have made their own interpretations, so I’m just gonna do my own. I’m not a psychologist so I’m not gonna pretend to know for sure what the movie and the end scene were about. But, here’s my interpretation for the end scene: Fletcher may have wanted some revenge against Andrew, but he also did say that a real talent never gets discouraged. So after Andrew left and came back, he played Caravan when he wasn’t supposed to (or Fletcher was hoping he would). He then said that he would gauge Andrew’s eyes out, but that was just a little test and Andrew did not get distracted or looked worried. He just continued playing despite Fletcher’s words. When it was supposed to be done, Andrew kept drumming. And THAT’s when Fletcher genuinely asked what he was doing. And Andrew took control and drummed the way he wanted, like a true leader and talent. Fletcher was then impressed and respected Andrew. When Andrew looked like he was going to pass out, he fought through while his dad looked on. His dad looked concerned but also shocked by his son’s preserverance despite everything that he went through. Fletcher then helped Andrew with one of the equipments and even gave him some subtle advice and encouragement, something that Fletcher wouldn’t have done if Andrew hadn’t earned it. Andrew and Fletcher then look at each other with smiles, showing how far they have changed because of each other. Fletcher realises his positivity again and openly went along with Andrew’s drumming, instead of the other way around like the beginning of the movie. I realised that my take was a bit too positive for Fletcher and Andrew’s relationship, but the ending was so good because it did not give us a definitive interpretation. But, I’m happy with my one.

[@Anotherjune369]

What if he genuinely wants to push people beyond their limitations… not just make a puppet? It seems a little cynical to read into it that his only goal is control.

[@Anotherjune369]

@superc37 For sure. I'm not saying it's the ideal teaching method -just that his motives don't have to be bad for those methods to be flawed.

[@srnabooz]

Yes, pushing people beyond themselves is the goal Fletcher admits to himself, but subconsciously he has to establish some form of control over Neiman to get what he wants out of him (which is bragging rights of being the mentor to one of the greats).

[@red_velvetcake1759]

Nothing justifies abuse.

[@Anotherjune369]

@superc37 …yea but that wasn’t the point of the comment -the point was to illustrate that someone doesn’t need bad motives to do terrible things, and that a lot of times awful people actually had good motives they just executed immoral means.

[@aa6757]

The tyranny of human ego

[@leomduffy794]

This was a masterpiece there are many many many coaches teachers mentors ect ect that push there students go there breaking point.

[@ultralord8919]

It doesn't really seem like Andrew was playing for himself at the end, since he's still ultimately looking at Fletcher the at the end to see what Fletcher thinks of the performance.

[@matthewcover8748]

wow what a marvelous interpretation. thanks for sharing your thoughts, easy sub

[@thecoconutgum]

If this movie was a song, it would definitely be Master of Puppets by Metallica

[@JohnWiIkesBooth]

No it would still be called whiplash. Adrenaline starts to flow! Ya thrashing all around, acting like a maniac! WHIPLASH!

[@thecoconutgum]

@@JohnWiIkesBooth You know the meaning of Master of Puppets?

[@WillCarter1976]

That's one way of looking at it.

[@amuginho7535]

Man, this movie is as confusing as it gets, in a good way. I can never the tell the geniune intentions of both Fletcher and Neimann, especially the former. It's as if he was both a sadistic abuser and a great coach. It is like perfect mix of both, and I cant tell if his arguments about greatness are wrong.

[@bigecheese9039]

I feel like you have a more optimistic view of the ending the father wasn’t looking in amazement and fletcher wasn’t really looking in the aspect of equality fletcher throughout the entire movie creates a means of finally being noteworthy not in a sense that it might live up to his own beautiful unique aspects but that of others because that’s the point it’s not about genuine ability it’s about what others think of him and want him to be and in the end he became that his father wasn’t looking at him in amazement it was horror seeing that he had at this point completely lost his son to the expectations of himself and others to be the next “somthing” rather than being himself

[@keratinpearls5058]

I don't think Nieman seeked Fletcher 's approval ,he just wanted to be the greatest musician and would do whatever it took him to be one

[@lordofdarkdudes]

I hate this movie so much, i hate how it glorfies the ide of abusse creating the greatest muscians

[@lordofdarkdudes]

@@hatethisupdate it dose without a doubt

[@sophieromero3995]

Amazing analysis!

[@retroguyst8132]

I have to respectfully disagree though I admire your work here and your video is well edited. Fletcher is not surprised at the very end by what Nieman can do. It was what he was working towards all along. If you watch the movie a second time you will see indications of this. When Fletcher says, "the next Charlie Parker would never be discouraged." ... It's an indication for the last setup of Neiman at the final concert. To see if he will finally give in and give up in disgrace after being humiliated. Fletcher is testing him throughout the entire film and that's what the ending is as well

[@adityathota5158]

Well said mate . I am inspired to learn your perspective

[@TheWritersView]

I greatly appreciate it!

[@lindanorris2455]

MY OWN SISTER LIVES LIKE THIS. PUPPET AND PUPPET MASTER. WITH HER HUSBAND! AWFUL!

[@ryanrobinson4242]

Greatness requires mistreatment

[@dzzytv311]

Idk bro. Kinda seems like Fletcher got his puppet in the end.

[@ethanisnotme]

i think many might describe my relationship with my old gymnastics coaches abusive- but those sons of bitches made me into a national champion

[@DingaLingu]

Some of them want to use you, some of them wana get used by you, some of them want to abuse you, some of them want to be abused

[@timothydexter4027]

I disagree with you that Andrew is liberated. That makes for a prettier message and story but I don't think that is the one told here.

[@johnolmos8670]

Some people are good few are truly great and even fewer are the best.

[@reyesplace1096]

My high-school band director was a lot like terrence

[@codyking4342]

The fact is….99.99999 percent of people can not comprehend what it is to be great at something, therefor they dont understand what it takes to become that great. And that is a perspective that most people dont understand or realize about this movie. Everyone claims the abuse was terrible, but in actuality it was necessary. The reason Neiman tolerated it os because he truly wanted to be great and because he had to capability to be great he was able to understand that it was necessary. And thats something that everyone else just doesnt get. Neiman got exactly what he wanted! Just as Fletcher got exactly what he wanted. Everyone sees it as abuse by fletcher, but it was a symbiotic relationship.

[@RatPfink66]

You clearly are possessed of special wisdom that sets you above your peers. I wish you greatness thru abuse, and that you may be strong enough to abuse others yourself one day. Don't break the chain!

[@FunnyMichael69dyourmum]

Abuse isn't necessary for ANYTHING. It is unexcusable.

[@kevinkyzer2758]

Jessica lynn burkes favorite movie

[@52BLUE]

Great analysis, mate. I did one similar for film studies based on Trainspotting and its sequel. Would love to know your thoughts on it.

[@TheWritersView]

Great stuff man! Really loved your insight🎥

[@yousefsalym3371]

You are a philosopher

[@AskAW]

You're wrong. Everyone's wrong. Andrew is the villian. In the opening scene Andrew is alone.

[@FunnyMichael69dyourmum]

How?

[@enormousenoch]

Great video bro, what mic do you use to record?

[@TheWritersView]

Thank you! I use a Rode NT-USB attached to a mic arm.

[@apolloapostolos5127]

This move provides cultural commentary on weak men, weak family-ties, broken families, lack of self-worth & integrity among guys. The movie made abuse apparent with the court case of the suicide. It’s a distraction. ° Consider watching the movie with subtitles. The band members in that class were not men of self-defined morals. They were bending to outside influencers. As early on one guy remarks on a girl being a go-go dancer or a stripper (I forget which). The context of story-arch fills in the rest. ° We see less and less from each set of classmates. It’s about life in how it changes or forms into shape when working on a craft. The Obsession remarks on what it takes for men today in order to catch up, it’s an upstream battle to compensate for lacking years in developing deep masculine traits {integrity, respect, self-value}. ° Remember how the drummer’s living situation? A mattress, bleak apartment, not a lot of care to his personal grooming. ° He even timidly called up his ex hoping for a fantasy of revival hoping his external sense of validation would be a crutch to him valuing himself. ° He had so much to catch up on as a man. The movie is about maturing into a man as someone people can rely on in moments of crisis or intense stress (hinge the car wreck & practice room fiascos). ° Whiplash a series of trials and tribulations. ° It’s a movie exploring the frustrations one generations has in another generations refusal to mature. ° The guy who made RasberiPi micro-computer comments on freshmen’s lack of programming experience upon their first year in college, whereas when he was their age had several self-taught years in experience.

[@TheGrandOptimist95]

Lmao, stop watching Andrew Tate vids

[@apolloapostolos5127]

@@TheGrandOptimist95 almost, kid. The videos were -> Jesse Lee Peterson.

[@TheGrandOptimist95]

@@apolloapostolos5127 cornball

[@v.e.7159]

Fletcher is neither sadistic or abusive. He is blunt, honest, and only concerned with results. The men and women at the conservatory want to be professional musicians. In the real world all an employer cares about is results. Fletcher is doing a thing called TEACHING. It is a lost art and those few who still dare TEACH ? They get fired because all their students are wusses with hurt feelings.

[@petermj1098]

Lol Yeah he lies how a former student of his died in order to gaslight his students to continue to play in his band. You can be a strict teacher without being abusive.

[@FunnyMichael69dyourmum]

Denying abuse in the name of putting down younger generations is unhealthy. Fletcher is abusive, accept it. We're you abused in the past and conditioned to think this behavior is acceptable?

[@gagarin88888888]

Holy fucking shit what a good analysis video.

[@gaelpache6776]

I am not sure of my 5raductio but I will say narcissistic perverse, personality person? Toxic relationships? No doubt about but does the end justify the means?

[@dylanpennington1378]

I love the ending and I view it as positive. I see it almost as like, a rebirth. Neiman passes the test, he proves that there is literally no possible discouragement that can change his mind. And it's only in that final scene that fletcher realizes it, and he realizes that Nieman has been reborn. What Fletcher does to Neiman is obviously terrible right? But, it must be stated that Neiman would not have become great without it. Greatness arises in response to extreme obstacles.

[@kingofcrap4414]

I don't like this interpretation. It sounds to me like you are defending a toxic relationship and saying it was "all worth it in the end," which is a dangerous mindset to have.

[@Allin1Xavi]

But why did it need to get to that point? There’s so many of the greats in the music industry that end up dying young after the sacrifices of their humanity. I don’t think sacrificing that should be necessary for greatness.

[@RatPfink66]

@@Allin1Xavi Don't question people who excuse injustices with simple platitudes. They won't answer - the issue is simple for them and they want the last word.

[@justashton255]

amazing video and breakdown of this movie!!

[@jossecoupe446]

Nah that last part was way off, the ending is almost tragic in my eye.

[@blaisetelfer8499]

It may be an amazing film, but it's also responsible for Miles Teller being cast in future movies so...I have a complicated relationship with it.

[@xaviermorais39]

What did he do?

[@obsidianwarrior5580]

@@xaviermorais39 I think he doesn't like him cause the actor didn't get vaccinated for covid? I dunno that's the only thing that comes up that's controversial about him.

[@Shark97281]

I disagree with the ending. Neiman isn't playing for himself. He played to prove that he's the best to fletcher. When fletcher nodded to him, you could see neiman smile thinking "i finally got his approval." The director said that this is "the saddest happy ending. Neiman will likely die in his early 30s from stress or drug overdose." Straight from the horses mouth, whiplash is not a feelgood movie. Its a WARNING.

[@shoopoop21]

Death of the author, so stop beating that very dead horse.

[@yousefsalym3371]

A thinker

[@kitsunegiblaze8022]

Is this guy a Viltrumite?