Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that although Whiplash is a coming-of-age movie of sorts, it's also a searing, powerful, and -- for younger viewers -- possibly disturbing portrait of a talented young man under the tutelage of a brilliant but seemingly heartless mentor. The older man is smart and almost always right about his advice, but his tactics are brutal, from cruel name-calling (which involves tons of swearing, including "s--t," "f--k," a flurry of homophobic insults, and much more) to relentless nitpicking in his quest for perfection. Other issues to be aware of: There's a massive car accident that causes injuries, a student's suicide is mentioned, and the main character, Andrew, is so involved in his drumming that he literally draws blood. Clearly he's focused, and he works hard to achieve his goals, which is a strong example for teens -- just remind them not to lose themselves in the pursuit of perfection.

Sexual Content

Some flirting; sexual references.

Violence

A conductor is exacting to the point of cruelty. He belittles his students, calls them names, and hurls homophobic insults. He also slaps a student repeatedly and hurls a chair at him. News of a student's suicide circulates. A drummer practices so hard that his fingers bleed all over the drums. A character gets into a horrible car accident and suffers a bloody gash and bruises.

Language

Hateful homophobic language is hurled at students, including "f----t" and "pansy." Additional swearing abounds, including "s--t," "f--k," "bitch," "c--ksucker," "d--k," "ass," "motherf--ker," and "c--t."

Social Behavior

Hard work will get you where you want to go -- just make sure you don't lose yourself along the way.

Consumerism

Some labels/products seen, including Samsung.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Social drinking by college students.