Mark Walker (Danny Glover) is a civil rights lawyer who focuses on veterans returning from the war in Iraq. Mark knows that his better days are behind him, but he still fights the good fight and knows the unfortunate truth that war is inevitable and that history repeats itself.
He has two clients that he’s working with; Darien Cooper (Sam Underwood) who has been suffering with severe PTSD since he returned from his tour of duty and Cori (Prema Cruz), a veteran who has gone AWOL ever since she was raped by a senior officer. The Drummer tells their story alongside Mark’s own troubles with his ill health and fading memory.
Directed by Eric Werthman and co-written by Jessica Gohlke, The Drummer is an emotional and powerful story that is all too often repeated, but should never be left untold. With stories such as A Few Good Men, Welcome Home and The Best Years of Our Lives, The Drummer is another story of veterans cast aside when they were no longer needed.
Danny Glover proves once again that he is a charming and commanding screen presence and puts in a great performance. Walker is as a man overwhelmed by the weight of responsibility, and Glover’s performance gives the audience the feeling that no matter what, he will always do what is right.
Sam Underwood and Prema Cruz similarly put in good performances, with both of their stories dealt with sensitively and with respect, never feeling like their involvement is anything but reflecting what happens when veterans are cast aside.
The Story starts out as what could be talking to its audience about the issues they may not know about. However, it soon turns into something that feels more grounded as the lawyer and ex-soldiers are faced with impossible situations.
The Drummer is still as relevant now as it ever was and the consequences of war seemingly never change, although there are times when it can be dealt with differently. The Drummer never preaches to its audience, nor demonises an organisation to unrealistic levels. Instead, it leaves its audience with a stark reminder of what the brave men and women who go to war have to endure when they return.
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