‘Drummer Boy’ Review: Love, Family and Revolution Conflict at Musket’s Point in a Swoony Period Musical

“Drummer Boy” is a period musical about two families divided by class and loyalty during the American Revolution. It follows brothers Jeremiah and Benjamin Clem as they take opposing sides in the war, while love and family ties cross the divide; its central message is forgiveness and reconciliation.

The story begins in 1762, when the families sail from England to the colonies, and later settles in Kingston, New York. Jeremiah joins the British Army, while his disabled brother Benjamin is initially rejected by Patriot forces but earns a place by playing the drum, which soldiers used to signal commands. The film stars Joel David Smallbone, who also co-directs with his brother Ben, and is aimed chiefly at fans of their Christian pop group For King + Country.