Whiplash is a 2014 psychological drama film directed by Damien Chazelle. The film follows Andrew Neiman, played by Miles Teller, an ambitious music student and aspiring jazz drummer who is pushed to his limits by Terence Fletcher, played by J.K. Simmons, an abusive music conductor and perfectionist for the fictional Shaffer Conservatory in New York City. The film explores concepts of perfectionism, dedication, and success and deconstructs the concept of ambition.
The film won several awards including Best Supporting Actor for J.K. Simmons during the 87th Academy Awards.