For King + Country, the Grammy-winning duo known for their soaring anthems and heartfelt lyrics, are stepping into the director's chair once again. After the success of their family biopic Unsung Hero, which grossed over $21 million on a modest $6 million budget, the Smallbone brothers are back with a new cinematic venture. This time, they're tackling the American Revolution with Drummer Boy, a film that promises to blend historical drama with the band's signature themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
Premiering this Friday, November 6, Drummer Boy tells the story of two brothers, Benjamin (Lucas Leach) and Jeremiah Clem (Joel David Smallbone), who find themselves on opposite sides of the fight for independence. While Benjamin believes in his father's vision of a new nation, Jeremiah vows loyalty to the crown. The film also follows an enslaved woman who finds love and hope amidst the chaos. It's a story that mirrors the Smallbones' own journey of reconciliation, making it deeply personal for the duo.
Collider has an exclusive sneak peek at the film that sets the stage for this epic tale. The clip takes us aboard a British vessel where the Clem family is hiding during a French attack. Ioan Gruffudd plays the father, commanding his men as the enemy boards the ship. The scene erupts into a frantic battle of swords and gunfire, with young Ben running onto the deck to find his father. Jeremiah rushes to save him, but tragedy strikes as the children witness their father being gunned down. In the chaos, the ship's mast collapses, threatening to crush Ben's leg before the clip cuts away.
This pivotal moment is just the beginning of a story that explores the cost of war and the power of forgiveness. The film is directed by Ben and Joel David Smallbone, with a script by Richard L. Ramsey. The cast also includes India Brown, Melora Hardin, Beth Easdown, Beverley Knight, Charles Esten, and Iain Glen. The Smallbones have been developing this project for years, but it almost never came to be due to a rift in their own relationship.
In an interview with The Christian Post, Ben Smallbone revealed that he and Joel had a falling out so severe that they thought they'd never work together again. "I was quoted as saying very loudly, 'I don't want to ever work with Joel Smallbone again,'" he admitted. But about a year ago, they decided to mend their relationship, sitting in a coffee shop, hugging, crying, and apologizing. That reconciliation became the heart of Drummer Boy, making it a story that's as much about their own journey as it is about the birth of a nation.
"What became the 2026 version is deeply, deeply personal because Joel and I literally lived and breathed unity and forgiveness and reconciliation in the process of making this film," Ben said. This personal touch is evident in every frame, as the film weaves together themes of family, faith, and the struggle for freedom. For fans of For King + Country, Drummer Boy is more than just a movie—it's a testament to the power of music and storytelling to heal and inspire.
If you're a fan of historical dramas or just love a good underdog story, Drummer Boy is a must-see. And if you're curious about other cinematic journeys, check out our sneak peek at a holiday rom-com that flips the script or our exclusive look at a bloody Christmas finale. For those who love epic tales, we've also ranked every Star Wars movie from worst to best.
Drummer Boy hits theaters on November 6. Check out the exclusive clip above to get a taste of the drama and emotion that awaits.
