Rating: PG13
Genre:
Comedy Drama
Theatrical Release: 12/13/2002(USA)
Release Date: 01/27/2009
Run Time: 127 Minutes
Flags: Adult Situations, Questionable for Children, Adult Language, Suitable for Teens
Distributor/Studio: 20th Century Fox
Drumline brings the world of "show-style" marching bands (popular at traditionally black, Southern colleges) to the big screen for the first time. The story, by
Shawn Schepps, was inspired by the high school drumline experiences of executive producer/executive music producer
Dallas Austin.
Devon (
Nick Cannon of
Nickelodeon's
The Nick Cannon Show) is a Harlem drummer who earns a full scholarship to the fictional Atlanta A&T University. There, his talent gets the attention of the school's embattled musical director,
Dr. Lee (
Orlando Jones), who puts his students' education and appreciation for musical tradition ahead of the marching band's popularity.
Devon's brashly egotistical attitude doesn't endear him to
Lee, whose slogan for the band is "One band, one sound," or to the drumline's disciplined captain,
Sean (
Leonard Roberts, late of TV's
Buffy the Vampire Slayer).
Devon has more success with the dance captain of the marching band,
Laila (
Zoe Saldana, who played a ballet dancer in
Center Stage), a Southern belle who's won over by
Devon's confidence.
Sean feels threatened by
Devon's talent, and his attitude, so when he learns that
Devon can't read music, he uses the information to his advantage. With the band facing their archrival at a huge marching band competition,
Dr. Lee has to decide whether to allow the brilliant drummer to perform, despite his attitude.
Devon has to prove that he can show his skills while still being part of the team.
Drumline was directed by
Charles Stone III (
Paid in Full), and features cameo appearances by musical artists
Blu Cantrell and
Petey Pablo.
~ Josh Ralske, All Movie Guide
