Angel Studios has released “Drummer Boy,” a new Christmas musical set during the American Revolutionary War, bringing together the music of Grammy-winning Christian duo for KING + COUNTRY and a story about two brothers fighting on opposite sides of America’s struggle for independence.

The film opened in theaters November 6, marking Angel Studios’ first live-action theatrical musical. Directed by brothers Ben and Joel Smallbone, the production arrives during America’s 250th anniversary year.

Unlike traditional Christmas movies centered on the birth of Jesus, “Drummer Boy” explores Christian themes through a historical drama involving war, slavery and a divided family.

Two Brothers on Opposite Sides of the Revolution

The story follows Jeremiah Clem, portrayed by Joel Smallbone, and his younger brother Benjamin, played by Lucas Leach.

As the American colonies rebel against British rule, Jeremiah remains loyal to the Crown while Benjamin joins the Patriot cause as a military drummer.

Their opposing loyalties threaten to tear apart the Clem family.

Melora Hardin portrays their mother, Rachel, while Ioan Gruffudd plays Nathaniel Clem.

Another important storyline follows Emmaline, portrayed by India Brown, an enslaved young woman seeking freedom during the Revolution.

Her character confronts a central contradiction of America’s founding: colonists were fighting for their own independence while slavery remained legal throughout much of the emerging nation.

The film also stars Charles Esten as British officer Lord Balfour and Iain Glen as Major John Ambrose.

The Music Behind the Film

Music plays a major role in the production, with for KING + COUNTRY providing the foundation for the soundtrack.

The Christian duo, consisting of Joel and Luke Smallbone, has won four Grammy Awards and built an international following through songs combining contemporary Christian music with cinematic arrangements.

The film’s soundtrack was released through Curb Records on November 6.

The 13-track collection includes original compositions, performances by cast members and reimagined Christmas songs.

Featured tracks include “Same Blood,” “Wildflower,” “Who I Hope To Be” and the group’s rendition of “Little Drummer Boy.”

The musical performances are incorporated into the historical storyline rather than presented as a separate concert.

A Project Years in the Making

The idea behind “Drummer Boy” developed from for KING + COUNTRY’s long-running musical interpretation of the Christmas classic “Little Drummer Boy.”

The group’s theatrical performances of the song helped establish the visual and musical style that eventually influenced the movie.

The film took approximately eight years to develop.

Joel Smallbone serves as both lead actor and co-director, working alongside his brother Ben, whose previous directing credits include “Homestead” and “Priceless.”

Their brother Luke also participated in the production.

The movie was written by Richard L. Ramsey, who previously worked on the Christian family drama “Unsung Hero.”

Angel Studios Expands Into Historical Musicals

“Drummer Boy” represents another step in Angel Studios’ expansion beyond conventional faith-based dramas.

The company previously released “Sound of Freedom,” “The King of Kings” and “David,” building a theatrical catalog that includes historical stories, animation and religious entertainment.

Its latest production combines large-scale battle sequences, period costumes and original musical performances.

The film was shot in Ireland, where locations were used to recreate colonial-era America.

The production also features choreographed musical sequences involving soldiers and battlefield settings.

The movie carries a PG-13 rating for war violence and some bloody images, making it more intense than many traditional family-oriented Christmas releases.

Its reported running time is approximately two hours and nine minutes.

Early Reception and Theatrical Release

The film celebrated its Nashville premiere on November 4, two days before its nationwide opening.

The event was originally scheduled for the Grand Ole Opry House but was relocated to Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts after a water main break disrupted the original venue.

Early coverage highlighted the film’s elaborate musical performances, historical costumes and ambitious production design.

A review from Plugged In praised aspects of the storytelling and music while examining its Christian messaging and treatment of difficult historical subjects.

Broader audience reception and box office results will provide a clearer picture of the movie’s commercial performance.

“Drummer Boy” is currently in theaters, with showtimes and ticket information available through Angel Studios.

The release gives moviegoers a Christmas-season production that approaches familiar Christian themes through a less conventional setting: the founding of the United States and the personal sacrifices made during the Revolutionary War.