Loosely inspired by their signature Christmas cover, for KING + COUNTRY is bringing “Drummer Boy” to theaters Nov. 6, 2026. Their latest feature film, however, isn’t simply a deeper look into the fictional story behind the timeless song. In fact, “Drummer Boy” shares no similarity to the well-known carol other than a boy and his drum. Rather than reimagining the events surrounding Christ’s birth, for KING + COUNTRY chose to script an all-new historical drama, appropriately centered around two brothers.
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Following crime thriller “Priceless” and family biopic “Unsung Hero,” the award-winning outfit set out to create their most ambitious film project to date — their first-ever musical. The duo’s Joel and Luke Smallbone co-wrote all of the original music for the movie, which is also accompanied by an official cast soundtrack.
Describing “Drummer Boy” as “part ‘Hamilton,’ part ‘The Greatest Showman’ and part ‘Pride and Prejudice,’” Joel says, “We’ve spent almost a decade bringing this story to life because we believe that even the deepest family wounds can be healed through the power of forgiveness and reconciliation.”
Not only does Joel co-direct the movie with his brother, Ben, but he also assumes the film’s leading role as Jeremiah Clem, the son of a fallen Englishman and the older brother to Benjamin “Ben” Clem, played by Lucas Leach (“Crookhaven”). Meanwhile, Luke serves as a co-producer and makes a brief cameo as a townsperson. “Drummer Boy” also stars Charles Esten (“Nashville”), Melora Hardin (“The Office”) and India Brown (“Invasion”).
After the Clem family relocates to New York in search of opportunity and a better way of life, they are torn apart by war, as the brothers suddenly find themselves on opposing sides of the American Revolution. A battle for family and freedom ensues, forcing each sibling to discern what they’re truly fighting for. Their enduring contention eventually culminates during a pivotal moment on Christmas Day on a snow-covered battlefield where they come face to face across enemy lines.
Additionally, an unexpected love story runs parallel to the conflict between brothers. Blurring unspoken boundaries of cultural propriety, socioeconomic status and racial class, Jeremiah falls in love with Emmaline, a servant girl saving to buy her freedom. Their clandestine relationship ultimately uncovers family secrets and bigger challenges than they could have ever predicted.
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At its heart, “Drummer Boy” is a testament to the courage required to stand up for your convictions, even when you know it might cost you everything. With deep themes of forgiveness, faith, sacrifice, brotherhood and bravery woven throughout the two-hour film, for KING + COUNTRY’s latest endeavor radiates the tenets the band has sought to uphold from day one.
As Benjamin’s American general — played by Iain Glen (“Game of Thrones”) — tells him, “Some ideals are bigger than us, lad; bigger than Britain; perhaps bigger than being brothers.” That’s the fundamental message “Drummer Boy” succeeds in communicating as it navigates nuanced relational dynamics, complex politics and complicated family loyalties.
The Smallbone brothers spent three months in Ireland earlier this year filming some of the movie’s most cinematic scenes. Full of both high-powered action and meaningful lines, “Drummer Boy” is for KING + COUNTRY’s “Braveheart.”
Now 14 years past their debut, the GRAMMY® Award-winning artists are skilled movie makers and musicians, which enabled them to craft both a compelling story arc and an engaging score. The characters are emotive, and the music beats with the same heart that fuels for KING + COUNTRY’s biggest pop hits. In fact, the original songs propel the narrative forward in traditional musical fashion, with soaring melodies and memorable refrains punctuating every plot twist. Eight years in the making, “Drummer Boy” reveals a colossal undertaking worth the wait.
The duo, who bowed their fifth studio effort, “The Most Beautiful Colours,” in September, will host a star-studded premiere — open to the public — at Nashville’s legendary Grand Ole Opry House on Nov. 4, marking the venue’s first movie premiere in its history. In addition, Joel and Luke are expected to make appearances at select theaters across the country during opening weekend. Further supporting the anticipated theatrical release, for KING + COUNTRY will kick off their annual “Drummer Boy Christmas” tour Nov. 19. The beloved holiday trek encompasses 21 dates, including a four-night stint in Nashville where the brothers will return to the Opry House for their popular residency that consistently sells out each year.
Parents should note that “Drummer Boy” is rated PG-13 for violence and depictions of war.
