The Drum

[James]

I came upon this film on TV, and for kilt-weaponry-uniform and tactic buffs in respect of the British Army in India during the 1919/39 period, an excellent source.

Plus a special treat for the Americans watching the film: an Indian Army mountain battery coming into action and unloading the various parts of the artillery piece from their Missouri mules. These mules being used because of their size, necessary for the carriage of the guns.

With regard to the kilted troops, it showed a variety of forms of dress from full to field service complete with full apron. Besides the tartan riding breeches worn by mounted officers. Of particular interest was the fact that on numerous occasions the sporran was not worn.

For those who might complain at the sight of underpants being worn in action/by casualties: bearing in mind that such garments were avable to highland units and worn by some: this is not of necessity inaccurate.

Looking at the accuracy of the depictions of such things as web equipment, and weaponry: I'd suggest that this film is a better source in respect of the kilt than many so called expert books/artists depictions.

The only major technical fault being Vickers MMG's being fired without steam condensers and in too long bursts. There again a film maker is entitled to their attempts to make the scene interesting, rather than to satisfy the miltary eye.

James

[macwilkin]

Aye, James, it is a very good movie...it's been several years since I've seen it -- I wonder if it is out on DVD?

T.

[sav]

I'm not sure if it's out on DVD...I have it on VHS.
~Sav

[macwilkin]

I'm not sure if it's out on DVD...I have it on VHS.
~Sav

Where did you get it?

T.

[Mike n NC]

Amazon has it in VHS under the title it was released under here in the states...Drums.

Mike

[sav]

Yeah, I picked it up in its original form off AmazonUK...I had pay extra shipping, and of course with exchange rates, the price was outrageous, but it's worth it!
~Sav