Whiplash

Picture the bootcamp section of Full Metal Jacket but at a cutthroat music conservatory and you'll have an idea of what to expect from Whiplash. This is mesmerizing, intense, edge-of-your-seat entertainment with two of the finest performances of year. Expect J.K. Simmons to go home with the Best Supporting Actor Oscar (although Ruffalo might squeeze by) at the end of the month.