Exploring the Best Drum and Drumming Movies: Whiplash and The Gene Krupa Story

For drum enthusiasts and music aficionados, movies that delve into the world of drums and drumming can offer a unique and engaging experience. Two notable films that capture the essence of drumming are The Gene Krupa Story and the critically acclaimed Whiplash. Each film provides a different perspective on the world of drumming, from historical legends to modern-day battles and triumphs.

Understanding Drumming Through The Gene Krupa Story

The Gene Krupa Story is a film that chronicles the life of the legendary band leader and drummer, Gene Krupa. As a drummer myself with over 50 years of experience, both in live band sessions and studios, I found The Gene Krupa Story to be a fascinating, albeit somewhat romanticized, portrayal of an iconic figure in music history.

The film aims to capture the energy and passion of a brilliant musician's journey. However, my experience viewing the film was a bit more complex. While the movie is visually stunning and rich in musical content, I couldn't help but feel a sense of dissatisfaction. The narrative is marred by a troubling depiction of bullying, which, to me, left a bad taste in my mouth. It's not just the content of the movie that troubled me but the overall tone. Essentially, it feels like a Full Metal Jacket-style film, but with a focus on drumming. Watching it was akin to enduring a profound sense of discomfort.

Battle and Triumph in Whiplash

Whiplash, on the other hand, is a much more contemporary and intense exploration of a different side of the drumming journey. This film follows a young drummer, Andrew Neiman, played by Miles Teller, played against a backdrop of extreme competitiveness and bully culture. Whiplash stands out for its raw and unflinching portrayal of a student who undergoes severe and relentless training under the insufferable mentorship of Terence Fletcher, played brilliantly by J. K. Simmons.

The movie is undeniably intense and disturbing at times, but it’s precisely this intensity that makes Whiplash so captivating. The film explores themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the price one pays for success. It’s a compelling, albeit difficult, watch that leaves a lasting impact. The film’s success is largely due in part to the powerful performances, particularly Simmons’s portrayal of a mentor that transitions from inspiring to terrifying in the most intoxicating fashion.

A Critical Look at Bullying and Mentorship

Both films tackle the issue of bullying, albeit in different ways. The Gene Krupa Story softens the concept of bullying with the romanticized and historical context, while Whiplash presents a raw and brutal depiction of the same. The film is not without its controversial aspects. J. K. Simmons's performance is nothing short of masterful, but his portrayal of a miserable mentor who pushes his student to the brink of mental breakdown raises important questions about the nature of mentorship and the balance between pushing limits and abusing power.

Conclusion

Drumming and the artistic world often mirror the themes of passion, struggle, and dedication. Both The Gene Krupa Story and Whiplash capture these themes through their unique lenses. While The Gene Krupa Story provides a historical perspective with moments of entertainment and historical significance, Whiplash dives into the darker and more challenging aspects of the musician's life. Each film offers valuable insights into the world of drumming and the people who make it their life's work.

Additional Resources

For those interested in exploring more drumming films or learning about the world of drums, here are a few additional resources:

Juno - While not solely about drums, this film touches on music and performance in a significant way. Catch Me If You Can - Another film with a musical element that could be interesting for a drumming enthusiast. La La Land - A more recent film that explores the music industry in a vibrant and colorful manner.

Remember, whether you find yourself enthused by the historical panorama presented in The Gene Krupa Story or the intense realism of Whiplash, the world of drumming is incredibly dynamic and diverse. Dive into these films, and you'll find a wealth of stories that celebrate the universal language of drums.