If you loved Whiplash, the intense and thrilling drama about a young jazz drummer’s quest for perfection, you might be on the lookout for more movies that scratch that same itch. Here are ten films that will appeal to fans of Whiplash, whether you’re drawn to the music, the drama, or the themes of ambition and obsession.
1. Black Swan (2010)
Like Whiplash, Black Swan is a psychological thriller about the pursuit of artistic excellence. Natalie Portman stars as a ballerina who becomes obsessed with performing the lead role in Swan Lake, pushing herself to the brink of madness in the process. The film is visually stunning and emotionally gripping, with a performance by Portman that won her an Oscar.
2. La La Land (2016)
Whiplash director Damien Chazelle reunited with his leading man, Ryan Gosling, for this modern musical about two artists in Los Angeles trying to make it big. Emma Stone co-stars as a struggling actress, and the chemistry between the two leads is electric. La La Land won six Oscars, including Best Director for Chazelle.
3. Birdman (2014)
Like Whiplash, Birdman is a film about an artist striving for greatness against all odds. Michael Keaton stars as a former superhero actor trying to stage a comeback with a Broadway play, but he’s haunted by his past and by the voice of his superhero alter ego. The film is stylishly shot and features a terrific ensemble cast.
4. The Social Network (2010)
The Social Network may not be about music, but it shares Whiplash’s exploration of ambition and obsession. The film tells the story of the founding of Facebook and the legal battles that followed, with Jesse Eisenberg delivering a standout performance as Mark Zuckerberg. The script by Aaron Sorkin crackles with wit and tension.
5. Amadeus (1984)
If you’re looking for a classic film about music and obsession, look no further than Amadeus. This Best Picture winner tells the story of the rivalry between Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and his jealous fellow composer Antonio Salieri. The film is richly detailed and features gorgeous performances of Mozart’s music.
6. A Star is Born (2018)
The latest version of A Star is Born stars Lady Gaga as an aspiring singer and Bradley Cooper as a fading country star who discovers her talent. The film is a powerful exploration of the price of fame and the toll that artistic ambition can take on a person. Lady Gaga’s performance is particularly impressive.
7. Fame (1980)
Fame is a classic musical about the trials and tribulations of students at the New York City High School for the Performing Arts. The film follows several students as they pursue their dreams of stardom, and features memorable musical numbers and a cast of talented young actors.
8. Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)
Inside Llewyn Davis is a Coen Brothers film about a struggling folk singer in 1960s New York City. Oscar Isaac stars as Llewyn, a talented but prickly musician who can’t seem to catch a break. The film features a great soundtrack and a standout performance by Isaac.
9. Almost Famous (2000)
Almost Famous is a coming-of-age film about a teenage journalist who goes on tour with a rock band in the 1970s. The film captures the spirit of the era and features memorable performances by Kate Hudson, Frances McDormand
10. Whiplash (2014)
Of course, no list of movies like Whiplash would be complete without mentioning the film itself. If you loved Whiplash, why not revisit the film and marvel once again at the electrifying performances by Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons? You might even pick up on new details or nuances you missed the first time around.
Conclusion
These ten films offer something for fans of Whiplash, whether you’re looking for more music, drama, or exploration of the themes of ambition and obsession. From classic films like Amadeus to modern musicals like La La Land, there’s a movie on this list for everyone. So pop some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to be transported into the world of these captivating films.
