Having been a member of both my Jr High and High Schools prestigous band, the movie Drumline really connected with me in ways it may not to those never havin experienced the life of a band member. It really hit home once it was revealed that the Make 7-Up Yours guy, Orlando Jones, played the role of Band Director Dr. James Lee. See my High School Band Director played a pivotal role in my HS success and his name was, tada, Mr. Lee. So I watched film with plenty to relate to in viewing.
The movie's basic premise is nothing entirely new. It takes a talented, yet wild and untamed individual and pits him with a tough yet caring mentor where both end up learning in the end. It's in the same mold as Good Will Hunting, if you will. The movie focuses on the very talented Devon Miles, played by Nick Cannon. Devon grew up without a father in the tough streets of Harlem. However a natural talent for the Drums along with a strong mother helped him make his way to graduation. His awesome ability is witnessed firsthand as he transforms the HS Band into a crowd cheering roar during the graduation. The movie focuses on his first year of college as Devon goes through much of what anyone goes through. New friends, girls, tough classes and of course partying!
Upon the very first day of Marching Camp Devon runs into his nemesis throughout the film. Sean is the leader of the Drum section and he doesn't like one bit Devon's wild attitude or awesome ability. You gotta understand Marching Band Camp can be very similar to Boot Camp with strict policies and rules. Bands have to be very disciplined and in shape in order to perform successfully and from day one Devon isn't into following orders.
Watching the trio of Devon, Sean and Dr. Lee grow and learn from each other is the heart of the film but definitely not the only reason to watch. This movie has some of the best choreographed marches I have ever witnessed. The music ranges from current hip-hop hits to R&B Soul hits of the past. Yes the film is centered on the African American culture but is not meant as a film only to be viewed by a select group of people. No this film has heart, it has culture to offer and it has superb acting. Orlando Jones shows a dramatic side I never knew he had. There is no comedy here just raw life. Drumline connected with me more than most people, however, it is still and excellent film that most viewers will enjoy!
The Disc:
Fox has included many extras on this disc which for me were all really interesting. The full length commentary from director Charles Stone III is fascinating because professional marching bands were used to perform many of the sequences. The commentary really hits home on some interesting things that took place in order to get such grand looking shots and performances.
The 30 minute making of special is a bit less interesting but reaffirms pretty much more of what it took to put together such a set. Much of the film takes place on the football field. One thing about the movie I found odd where places where it felt like the scenes ended early. When I went back and looked at the deleted scenes with Director's Commentary I knew I was right. Many times it's easy to see why scenes were cut but most of the ones here seem to fit better than to be removed.
Music is the whole premise here so TWO music videos are includes. "I want a girl like you" by Joe featuring Jadakiss and "Blowin' Me Up" by JC Chasez. I enjoyed both videos and songs as they fit the movie. The extras on the disc are really a good complement to the film.
bottom line:
An excellent film with plenty of extra material provided in the DVD format. Orlando Jones and Nick Cannon put on very respectable and enjoyable performances. It's worth watching just for the beautifully choreographed shows!
4 out of 5
By - Brian Gray
