Drumline MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +2 Content: -2 1/2

The comedy Drumline is the fun story of a young man named Devon Miles (Nick Cannon) who goes to a Southern college on a marching band scholarship. Devon is a hip-hop, street drummer from Harlem, who is used to getting by on pure ability. The drummer comes under the leadership of band director, Dr. Lee (Orlando Jones), who pursues excellence with integrity. Devon quickly makes the starting lineup, but its not long before the talented freshman comes into conflict with the band director who requires Devon to be a team player. The tension intensifies when Devon is found to have lied on his college application and the college president threatens to fire Dr. Lee. Resolution is needed, and the band must pull together as the final band competition nears. The outcome will decide the future of Devon and Dr. Lee.

Drumline is full of energy and interesting relationships. The portrayal of life in a university band program is original, educational and compelling. Serving others is seen as a high priority while irresponsible behavior is shown to have its consequences. Friends encourage and help each other to become better musicians, and conflict is resolved through forgiveness and kindness. The title character learns to be interdependent, discovering that he cannot always get by doing his own thing. Dr. Lees character is a fine leader who values people and integrity over momentary success. The choreography of the marching band and the musical scenes are superb, portraying the ability to make great music as a desirable skill. Studying is seen as important for progress. The violence by characters in the film is kept to a minimum and seen to be unacceptable. If it were not unfortunately filled with inappropriate language, Drumline would be an inspiring movie to be recommended.

Preview Reviewer: Blaine Butcher
Distributor: 20th Century Fox