As an avid fan of Damien Chazelle’s 2014 masterpiece Whiplash. I had the opportunity to see this work-of-art live at the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago. With dazzling lights and jazzy tunes, an extra layer was added to this wonderful film that made it feel much more sensational. As someone who admires Whiplash, I felt the inspiration was taken to a whole new level. This classic film had colorful dynamics and enhanced power with the live musicians playing behind it.

What made the event extra special was that the composer Justin Hurwitz conducted the orchestra. He moved around the stage with intensity and determination, which was in tune with the dazzling ambience of the drummer. The musical numbers were filled with memorable moments that highlighted the best scenes in Whiplash. It all just dazzled me as well as the hundreds of others in this historic venue with me. The evening was a musical sensation with lights, drums, and smooth transitions where there was an incredible energy of positivity and courage that was surreal.

Because the film is well known for its unique dynamics, the audience already knew what they were getting into. As the lights faded to red, this meant darkness. As the lights shined brighter, this meant classical jazz moments. When lights went into strobe mode, this meant a rainbow of powerful music highlighting competition and tension. Hurwitz moved around the stage with such dramatic effect that it gave each portion of the concert added layers of meaning.

The realism in this live musical edition was due to two talented sources Again, Hurwitz’s talent as a director was a major factor which was complimented by the Chicago Philharmonic. The theme of Whiplash is about turning feelings of rejection into encouragement. Seeing the score performed live topped the charts in my book. While I’m not a musician, my artistic heart was pumping wildly during Whiplash in Concert. The acoustics of The Auditorium are outstanding. The sounds elevated theartistry throughout this historic building.

The way in which this film was presented with a live orchestra playing at The Auditorium Theatre resulted in a deeper feeling of connection with the characters in the movie. For example, in the moments when Andrew (played by Miles Teller) was isolating himself to learn his drums and becoming more self-absorbed, I felt there was energy throughout the building that made audiences gasp in awe. In addition, there were electric ripples when Fletcher (played by JK Simmons) displayed anger and wrath as he belittled his mentees.

The enticing element of tension while the battle for success progressed felt like a never-ending rollercoaster ride with Whiplash in Concert. This event was a one-of-a-kind musical adventure where cinematics is taken to a championship level. I kept hoping for additional rounds because the experience was so engrossing. Seeing one of my favorite films in concert blew my mind because of the mesmerizing way it was presented. This was definitely a four out of four-star theatrical adventure for me.