Still the Drums

Still the drums is a story about childhood friends who grew up went to war and are now older reflecting back upon incidents from the Vietnam war. Of the original four friends, one was killed at war and the remaining three have a ritual where they remember him. He is gone but not forgotten since he had a significant impact on the lives of his friends.

The plot is simple enough but different from mainstream cinema. I was a bit surprised how the plot unraveled in a somewhat disturbing series of events.

This film is well made and the characters are well casted. If you keep in mind that this is an independent film, you won't be disappointed.

I went to Los Angeles for the NYIIFVF film festival and premiere of my film BIRTHDAY FREE FOR ALL. As an independent filmmaker, I was interested in seeing some other films in the festival. The one that stood out more than any other was STILL THE DRUMS. There wasn't an empty seat in the theater and the movie delivered with an engaging and powerful story. I found myself wondering if this was inspired by a true story. The characters and emotion seemed so real. I am sure there a veterans out there with a story similar to this one. The cast and crew were extremely friendly and a pleasure to be around. STILL THE DRUMS is exactly the reason we make movies.

"Still the Drums" is the kind of Indy that I have been waiting for. Finally a film that deals in character and story, rather than hype and gore. This fine little film is a flashback to films like "Glengarry Glen Ross" and "Twelve Angry Men." Just put some people in a room together, with a great premise, and see what happens. In this case it's three Viet Nam Veterans and their past in the War. These three lifelong friends laugh together, cry together, and ultimately confront the War that defined their lives. The writing is taught, the direction is crisp, and the acting is excellent. This is what Indies were originally about. This is the type of film you would expect out of John Cassavetes. So if you like character driven stories, this film is for you. I've certainly been waiting for a film like this for a long time. And thanks to producer, writer, director, actor, Talbot Perry Simons I finally have just what I've been looking for.

This is a poignant and moving independent film.

Richard Fulvio's performance was understated, consistent and excellent throughout. It is difficult for three actors to effectively carry such long and difficult scenes. This film had flashes of brilliance that reminded me of Glengarry Glen Ross. The three clear and effective acts with outstanding original music built to a stunning and exhausting climax. This film sheds light on the complexity and collateral heartbreak that accompanies all wars. I hope this film and Richie's acting gets notice and praise at this and other film festivals. Great job to all who were involved in making this film.

STILL THE DRUMS What a powerful story of young best friends spanning over fifty years. The emotional ride and the process of life during war and the lasting effect it has on a soldier after he has hung up his uniform.The good with the bad and the bad with the good.

Talbot Perry Simons does a fantastic duty as writer, director, and actor. This is truly a very well done INDY film, and fine performances by Bobby Figaro and Richard Fulvio. The passion of this film is so very captivating,a gut wrenching journey of the process of life of the men dealing with the true emotional effect of war.The finish was certainly an absolute shocking surprise, definitely a must see movie.