Jan Goodman As I write this review I'm crying like a baby. The movie has just finished. Not many movies reduce me to tears like this one. There are few words that could describe the sensitivity of this story. It deals with not only the major illness of muscular dystrophy but also the misunderstood condition of hyperactivity. The innocence of a little boy who always found himself in trouble with the powers that be but he didn't understand why that if anything at all went wrong, he was always to blame. A teacher who used clichés that are readily understood by adults is frustrated when a child doesn't understand what she is saying so he uses his resources to undercover the meaning, only to believe she means the opposite. When the movie began I cringed at the acting abilities of some of the cast but as the story developed, I forgot to cringe and the storyline is strong enough to overcome acting limitations.I gave Different Drummers a 9/10 because of the sensitive way that two medical conditions were brought together through children... one with no energy and one with too much.

Gary Marks I haven't met a person yet who didn't love this movie. It's one of those you could watch several times - as I have done. Many people have quit going to movies because of the unexpected "trashiness" contained in most shows. Not DD. It is a great family movie that anyone can watch and enjoy. Remember, this is based on a true story which is authenticated at the beginning of the credits. Different Drummers is a true "diamond in the rough". A refreshing, emotional, funny story. It will touch all your emotions! I encourage everyone to see this show and that they encourage others to see this show to support good wholesome entertainment that the movie industry is so drastically lacking.

Julie Nicholes Craig I first read the book, which was great and highly recommend it for kids, teens and adults. Unlike many film adaptations of a true story, this film really took what I had read, formed in my imagination and made the characters come alive. Brayden Tucker portraying the hyperactive Lyle Hatcher was absolutely brilliant. Ethan Reed McKay played a convincing, believable David Dahlke. This film brought me back to my own childhood in so many ways. It was a wonderful portrayal of friendship and families and school in the 1960s. The complex issues of death, disease, and being different are shown through the eyes of these two lovable, "sometimes naughty" boys. I think it's a must-see for anyone who interacts with a child with disabilities. Lyle doesn't seem to realize that David's limitations are anything that should stand in the way of their fun or their friendship. Warning-- bring tissues!

conniehwrd Different Drummers is a "tell all your friends" movie. When people ask me what makes this movie one I highly recommend, I am quick to tell them it's a TRUE story. A story of two young boys - one with Muscular Dystrophy and one diagnosed with ADHD- who experience an unlikely connection and develop a treasured friendship. They help each other tackle problems, dream big dreams, and navigate limitations.I was pleased to discover that the movie stays true to the book and maintains the essence of this tender story. The characters are believable, sensitive, and brave. There may be tears at the end, but rest assured that you will smile when you think of this uplifting story.