Drums from the Past
1971, French. Directed by Jean Rouch.
Filmed in May 1971 in Niger, this short documentary records a possession ritual performed by the Simiri people in response to a locust invasion. The ceremony centers on the beating of the archaic drums Tourou and Bitti, used to invoke spirit forces through music, dance, and trance. Shot in a single continuous take, the film documents a concentrated moment of collective ritual practice, reflecting Jean Rouch’s first-person ethnographic approach and direct participation in the event.
- Runtime
- 0h 9m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- French
- Rated
- Check local
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Where to watch Drums from the Past
Drums from the Past isn’t streaming on any OTT platform in India yet; it released on 1 January 1971.
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Cast & crew
Details
- Released
- 1 January 1971
- Original title
- Tourou et Bitti: Les tambours d'avant
- Country
- France
- Written by
- Jean Rouch
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Drums from the Past: quick answers
Is Drums from the Past worth watching?
Drums from the Past doesn’t have enough ratings for a verdict yet.
How long is Drums from the Past?
Drums from the Past runs 9 minutes (0h 9m).
Does Drums from the Past have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for Drums from the Past. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
Drums from the Past parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
No age rating is listed for Drums from the Past yet.
Which OTT platform is Drums from the Past on?
Drums from the Past isn’t streaming on any OTT platform in India yet; it released on 1 January 1971. (Checked 11 November 2026.)
What movies are like Drums from the Past?
If you liked Drums from the Past, try Ex Libris: The New York Public Library, Billie Eilish - Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live in 3D), Orgasm Inc: The Story of OneTaste.
Who directed Drums from the Past?
Drums from the Past (1971) was directed by Jean Rouch.