An ambitious young jazz drummer, enrolled in a prestigious music conservatory, yearns to achieve greatness and leave his mark on the world of music. He lands a spot in the school's top jazz ensemble, but soon discovers the cutthroat world that awaits him. The band is led by a fearsome and relentless instructor, known for his ruthless teaching methods and unyielding demand for perfection. The instructor pushes his students to their limits, blurring the line between mentorship and tyranny, all in pursuit of producing the best musicians possible.

As rehearsals intensify, the young drummer struggles to meet the exceedingly high standards set by his instructor, leading to a potent mix of fear, ambition, and desperation. He practices incessantly, his life consumed by his drive to succeed and his fear of failure. This obsession strains his relationships and takes a toll on his physical and mental health. Caught in a cycle of grueling practice and harsh criticism, the young man's determination is constantly tested, forcing him to confront his limits and decide how much he's willing to sacrifice for his art.