Do you love talking about Films? Are you trying to watch more films in English?
Thinking in English is hosting another Film Club!- 18:00 UTC on Wednesday 26th June!
Join us to discuss…. Whiplash!
You can find more details on how to participate on Patreon and Discord!
Film Club – Whiplash – Conversation Questions –
Useful Resources – Vocabulary – Example Answers
What is the Thinking in English Film Club?
The Film Club is a great opportunity for Thinking in English Patreon members to practice their conversational English by discussing a film with other members.
In each session we will talk about one film, please try to watch it before attending! Just like in the normal Conversation Clubs we will provide 10 questions about the film to help to inspire you.
You can find these (and some other useful resources) below…
For our next meeting on Wednesday 26th June, we will be discussing Whiplash, a breath-taking yet controversial film about a young jazz drummer who is desperate to reach the top and the extreme methods of his instructor.
Whiplash
(2014)
What is Whiplash
Here is a movie description for Whiplash!
“Whiplash,” directed by Damien Chazelle, is a gripping drama about the intense relationship between a young jazz drummer, Andrew Neiman, and his ruthless instructor, Terence Fletcher.
Andrew, portrayed by Miles Teller, is determined to be the best, but Fletcher, played by J.K. Simmons, uses fear and psychological torment to push his students beyond their limits.
The film explores themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the fine line between dedication and obsession. It raises moral questions about the cost of greatness.
Conversation Questions and Talking Points!
- This is often described as a very intense film. Which scene did you find the most intense and why?
- Describe the main character, Andrew Niemann. Did you relate to him? Did he make the right choices?
- What did you think of Andrew’s relationships with Nicole and his family?
- Are you a fan of Jazz music? Did you already know much of music in the film?
- Have you ever felt driven to achieve something like Andrew?
- Do you think you need to have Andrew’s level of obsessive commitment if you want to achieve greatness
- Discuss the character of the teacher, Terrence Fletcher. What’s your opinion of him.
- Do you think Fletcher always believed that Andrew was a great drummer? Why?
- Is Fletcher’s method the best way of coaching excellence? Is it worth it?
- How did the ending of the film make you feel? Was it satisfying?
And finally, how would you describe the film to someone who has never seen it before? Would you recommend it? Why?
Do you have any more thoughts or questions about Whiplash? Why not prepare 1 or 2 more of your own questions or opinions about the film?!
Useful Resources
To help you prepare for the Film Club, you might want to look at the following useful online resources:
Playlist of Whiplash clips on YouTube:
IMDb Page
IMDb page where you can find everything about the film including: Videos, Characters, Cast and Crew, Plot Synopsis, Quotes, Reviews and more!
Plugged In Film Review
Thorough and clear film review from the website “Pluuged In”
YouTube Analysis
Interesting YouTube Analysis by evanonline
Vocabulary
Whiplash Vocabulary
Learn and practice vocabulary for this Conversation Club!.
Practice using 5 different study games and activities – including writing, listening, and memorisation techniques!
Flashcards
Matching Game
Learning Game
Test Yourself
Listening and Spelling
General Film Vocabulary
Learn and practice vocabulary for this Thinking in English Conversation Club.
Practice using 5 different study games and activities – including writing, listening, and memorisation techniques!
Flashcards
Matching Game
Learning Game
Test Yourself
Listening and Spelling
Example Answers
Example answers to question 1 – “What emotions did the film evoke in you?”
B1 Example Answer
B2 Example Answer
C1 Example Answer
See you all at the Film Club!
