Whiplash: Selling Yourself Through Adversity

There are countless movies and T.V. shows that emphasize a protagonist who wants to prove to someone that they are qualified for a position. In the movie “Whiplash”, this theme is brought to light in an especially raw and real way. We are introduced to the main character Andrew Neiman, a driven jazz drummer who aspires to join the prestigious Shaffer Conservatory jazz ensemble. This group is led by the ruthless instructor Terence Fletcher. The entire movie revolves around Andrew’s pursuit to prove that he is worthy of his position in the ensemble and to earn Fletcher’s respect by becoming the best.

The difference between Whiplash and many other movies is that it captures the extreme level of brutality Andrew ensures from Fletcher’s abusive and destructive mentoring tactics. He is beaten down relentlessly for every small mistake he makes, leading to his worsening mental state. At every turn, Andrew must “sell himself” to Fletcher or else he will be replaced at the drop of a hat. In the last scene, he pulls off an incredible drum solo, leaving Fletcher and the audience in awe. In the final ten seconds of the movie, Andrew finishes the drum solo and looks up at Fletcher, who smiles and gives him a nod of approval. This is the only moment in the movie where Andrew receives any validation from Fletcher, leaving him and the audience with a feeling of accomplishment and relief. Selling yourself can be done in many ways, some not as glamorous as others. The important thing to keep in mind is that believing in yourself and your abilities will enable others to believe in you too.