The Drummer (2007) Zhan. gu (original title): After offending a powerful triad boss, young Hong Kong rebel Sid (Jaycee Chan) is sent by his father to hide out in Taiwan. Under the protection of Chiu (Roy Cheung) and in rural isolation, Sid encounters a group of Zen drummers, whose powerful art speaks to him. But to become a member of this inspiring ensemble, the cocky and selfish Sid must learn the important values of discipline and hard work. (6.7)
Director: Kenneth Bi
Stars: Jaycee Chan, Tony Leung Ka Fai and Angelica Lee
Languages: Mandarin | Cantonese (w/ English subtitles)
A nice blend of modernity in Hong Kong with the traditional isolation in the mountains of Taiwan. The storyline is somewhat predictable. I enjoyed the drum-beats, the mountain scenes; and frankly what seems like a glimpse into the daily life in another society (not all that different). The rural scenes reminded me of SL. The beating of the drums mixed with a bit of martial arts (Shaolin?) was nice. The story gets a bit soapy at the end, but meh, the drum music was good. My Rating: 6.5
