What happens when two brothers find themselves on opposite sides of a war? Can love and forgiveness bring a divided family back together?
This Christmas season, the brothers behind for KING + COUNTRY are bringing a powerful new story to the big screen, and it’s one you may want to add to your holiday plans!
DRUMMER BOY, a new musical film from Angel Studios, arrives exclusively in theaters November 6, 2026, bringing together incredible music, a dramatic story, and a message of hope that points to the heart of Christmas.
A Christmas Story Unlike Any Other
When you think of Christmas movies, you probably picture twinkling lights, cozy family gatherings, and maybe a little snow.
But DRUMMER BOY takes us somewhere unexpected: the battlefields of the American Revolutionary War.
As America fights for independence, two brothers find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict. One remains loyal to the British Crown, while the other joins the Patriot cause as a young drummer boy.
With their family divided and everything they love at stake, both brothers must wrestle with questions of loyalty, sacrifice, and forgiveness.
Alongside their story is the journey of an enslaved young woman searching for freedom.
It’s a story about more than a war for independence. It’s about the battles within our own hearts and the hope of finding freedom, even in the most difficult circumstances.
The Brothers Behind the Movie
If you love the music of for KING + COUNTRY, you’re already familiar with Joel and Luke Smallbone and their passion for sharing messages of faith and hope through music.
Now, they’re bringing that same heart to the movies!
DRUMMER BOY is co-directed by Joel Smallbone and his brother Ben Smallbone, with Joel also starring as Jeremiah Clem.
The film features original music from for KING + COUNTRY, along with reimagined Christmas classics, including their unforgettable version of “Little Drummer Boy.”
And if you’ve seen Unsung Hero, you’ll recognize the Smallbone family’s love for storytelling that celebrates faith, perseverance, and family.
A Reminder That Forgiveness Changes Everything
At first glance, a Revolutionary War musical might seem like an unusual Christmas movie.
But think about the reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place.
Jesus came into a broken world to bring hope, reconciliation, and freedom from sin.
Colossians 3:13 reminds us:
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Sometimes the hardest battles aren’t the ones happening around us. They’re the ones happening in our relationships, our families, and our hearts.
That’s what makes the message of DRUMMER BOY especially meaningful during a season when we’re reminded of God’s greatest gift: Jesus.
Because Christmas isn’t just about a baby born in Bethlehem. It’s about a Savior who came to make a way for us to be reconciled to God.
And because we’ve been forgiven, we can extend that same grace to others.
Make Plans to See DRUMMER BOY!
Whether you’ve been a longtime fan of for KING + COUNTRY or you’re simply looking for a meaningful movie to see this Christmas season, DRUMMER BOY offers a story filled with music, emotion, and reminders of the power of forgiveness.
Movie Details
- Film: DRUMMER BOY
- In Theaters: Friday, November 6, 2026
- Featuring: Joel Smallbone of for KING + COUNTRY
- Studio: Angel Studios
- Rating: PG-13 for war violence and some bloody images
Gather your friends or family, watch the trailer, and make plans for a movie night!
