Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Faith, forgiveness, some blood in Revolutionary War musical.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Drummer Boy
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
DRUMMER BOY is a musical that takes place during the American Revolutionary War. It focuses on brothers Jeremiah (Joel Smallbone) and Benjamin Clem (Lucas Leach), who find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict. Meanwhile, an enslaved woman named Emmaline (India Brown) fights for her freedom.
Is It Any Good?
With a musical beat that resonates with hope, this faith-based musical is likely to stir viewers' emotions with its clear themes of family, freedom, and forgiveness. Drummer Boy incorporates its Christian themes organically, without letting them overshadow the engaging (if historically inaccurate) story. Yes, the battlefield scenes might feel a little thin in the ranks (particularly during the climactic final fight), but the film finds its strength in its compelling blend of historical fiction, heartfelt storytelling, and enduring themes.
The movie's thoughtful parallels to the classic Christmas song "The Little Drummer Boy" add another layer of meaning to the story, offering viewers a thought-provoking respite from the busy holiday season. Driven by a strong soundtrack, engaging pacing, and memorable character arcs brought to life by Smallbone, Leach, and Brown, this poignant, moving holiday film marches to the beat of resilience and a fiercely independent spirit.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why you think the filmmakers chose to set this Christmas-inspired story during the Revolutionary War. How does the historical setting affect the themes of family, forgiveness, and freedom? What do you think would change if Drummer Boy was set during modern times?
How does the film connect the ideas of freedom and forgiveness? Can someone pursue justice while still choosing forgiveness? How can we practice forgiveness without minimizing injustice or excusing someone's harmful behavior?
How does Emmaline's story challenge or deepen the way we think about freedom? Why is it important to remember the experiences of enslaved people during this time, rather than focusing only on the soldiers and battles?
How does the movie's music influence the emotions you feel during important scenes? Would those scenes have the same impact without the soundtrack?
What does standing up for what's right look like in your school, friendships, or community? What's the difference between standing firm in your convictions and being unwilling to admit that you're wrong?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 6, 2026
- Cast : Joel Smallbone , Lucas Leach , India Brown
- Directors : Ben Smallbone , Joel Smallbone
- Studio : Angel Studios
- Genre : Musical
- Topics : Faith ( Christianity ) , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , History ( War: Other ) , Holidays ( Christmas )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- Run time : 127 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : war violence and some bloody images
- Last updated : November 4, 2026
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