Distant Drums is a 1951 American Florida Western film directed by Raoul Walsh and starring Gary Cooper.

Distant Drums was criticized for being historically inaccurate, received mixed reviews upon release, and was a moderate financial success.

It is notable for being the source of the Wilhelm scream sound effect, which is believed to have been voiced by cast member Sheb Wooley and is used when a supporting character is attacked by an alligator.

[2] During the Second Seminole War in 1840, US Army General Zachary Taylor sends naval Lieutenant Tufts and scout Monk to a remote Florida island home, where the reclusive Captain Quincy Wyatt lives with his 5-year-old son.

Wyatt and his men succeed in destroying the fort (the historic Castillo de San Marcos, which was not harmed during filming), but not before rescuing a group of prisoners being held there.