Drums from the Past
Tourou et Bitti: Les tambours d'avant
Synopsis
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.
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Jean Rouch
- Screenplay & Story
- Jean Rouch
- Original Title
- Tourou et Bitti: Les tambours d'avant
- Country of Origin
- France
- Spoken Languages
- French
- Runtime
- 9m
- Production Studios
- Comité du film Éthnographique, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, CNRS Images
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Jean Rouch
Jean Rouch
Department Leadership Roster
Jean Rouch
Director
Jean Rouch
Writer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Drums from the Past.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Drums from the Past
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Drums from the Past about?
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.
Who directed Drums from the Past?
Drums from the Past was directed by Jean Rouch.
Who stars in Drums from the Past?
The principal cast of Drums from the Past includes Not specified.
When was Drums from the Past released and how long is it?
Drums from the Past was released in 1971 with a total runtime of 9m.