Drummers are often the backbone of music, and these movies with drummers showcase their passion, struggles, and unique journeys.
Here are 10 films about drummers that capture their art in different ways.
1. Whiplash (2014)
- Director: Damien Chazelle
- Starring: Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons
- A gripping tale of a young jazz drummer pushed to his limits by a demanding teacher. Whiplash is one of the most intense films about drummers.
2. Drumline (2002)
- Director: Charles Stone III
- Starring: Nick Cannon, Zoe Saldana
A college marching band drama where a talented drummer learns to balance personal ambition with team spirit.
3. The Rocker (2008)
- Director: Peter Cattaneo
- Starring: Rainn Wilson, Christina Applegate
A light-hearted film about a failed drummer who gets a second chance to live his rock ‘n’ roll dream.
4. Almost Famous (2000)
- Director: Cameron Crowe
- Starring: Billy Crudup, Patrick Fugit
While it follows a rock journalist, the film includes great moments with the band’s drummer, contributing to the film’s rock spirit.
5. Sound of Metal (2019)
- Director: Darius Marder
- Starring: Riz Ahmed, Olivia Cooke
A powerful drama about a drummer who loses his hearing, navigating his identity as both a musician and a person.
6. The Last Waltz (1978)
- Director: Martin Scorsese
- Starring: The Band, Eric Clapton
A legendary concert film featuring The Band’s final performance, highlighting Levon Helm’s iconic drumming.
7. This Is Spinal Tap (1984)
- Director: Rob Reiner
- Starring: Christopher Guest, Michael McKean
A mockumentary about a rock band, with hilarious moments featuring the drummer’s absurd exits.
8. Pink Floyd: The Wall (1982)
- Director: Alan Parker
- Starring: Bob Geldof
A visually striking film where Nick Mason’s drumming plays a crucial role in the film’s surreal atmosphere.
9. That Thing You Do! (1996)
- Director: Tom Hanks
- Starring: Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler
A feel-good story about a band’s rise to fame, with a drummer at its core, showing how rhythm drives the music.
10. The Drum (2004)
- Director: David P. Houghton
- Starring: Barry Keoghan
A historical drama about a young boy’s drumming journey in 1920s Ireland.
These movies with drummers explore the passion, challenges, and impact of drummers in both music and film.
From intense dramas like Whiplash to light-hearted comedies like The Rocker, these films about drummers will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art of drumming.
