In an unexpected twist to its content lineup, Netflix is set to premiere a new documentary chronicling the inspiring and unconventional journey of a one-of-a-kind performance group: a marching band that performs during half marathons. Titled “Miles and Music: The Half Marathon Band”, the film promises to be a heartwarming and adrenaline-pumping exploration of how music, endurance, and community come together in the most unusual of settings.
The documentary, scheduled to debut worldwide next month, follows the story of the Liberty Rhythm Corps — a high-energy marching band based out of Austin, Texas — whose members perform along the 13.1-mile routes of half marathons, running and playing simultaneously. From saxophonists jogging in sync to percussionists keeping time with their steps, the band has quickly gained viral fame on social media for their unique blend of physical stamina and musical performance.
A Band Unlike Any Other
According to the Netflix press release, “Miles and Music” goes beyond the spectacle of the group’s performances to explore the dedication, discipline, and heart behind the scenes. The film follows the lives of several key band members, including founder and band director Angela Ruiz, who started the group as a way to blend her passions for fitness and music.
“What began as a quirky experiment has become a movement,” says Ruiz in a teaser trailer released earlier today. “People laugh when they first hear what we do, but once they see it — once they feel it — they get it. It’s not just a performance. It’s an experience.”
The documentary captures training sessions where the band must practice both running and playing at the same time — an intense physical and mental challenge. It also highlights the band’s role in uplifting runners and spectators alike during races. Many marathon participants interviewed in the film describe the band as a “lifesaver” on the course, providing the motivation needed to push through tough miles.
From Sidewalks to Streaming Stardom
The Liberty Rhythm Corps first gained national attention after a viral TikTok clip showed them performing Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” during the Austin Half Marathon. The clip amassed over 12 million views in just a week, drawing media attention and, eventually, a call from Netflix’s documentary development team.
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Jamie Kwan, known for Running the Distance and Brass Hearts, the documentary incorporates cinematic race footage, intimate interviews, and behind-the-scenes rehearsals to tell a compelling story that blends music, athleticism, and human spirit.
“This band challenges everything we think we know about marching bands, athletes, and art,” says Kwan. “They’re defying limitations — not just with their lungs or legs, but with their imagination.”
Cultural Impact and Anticipation
Netflix’s move to spotlight a documentary like “Miles and Music” signals a broader trend in entertainment — one that embraces niche, feel-good, and community-driven content. Early reviews from film festivals where the documentary was screened describe it as “joyful,” “unexpectedly moving,” and “a testament to creative endurance.”
Fans of both music and marathon culture are already expressing excitement online, with hashtags like #MilesAndMusic and #HalfMarathonBand trending on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. The official trailer, released just hours ago, has already garnered hundreds of thousands of views and sparked global curiosity.
Release Details
“Miles and Music: The Half Marathon Band” will be available to stream exclusively on Netflix starting May 15, 2025. The documentary is expected to run 82 minutes and is rated TV-PG for some mild language and intense running scenes.
Whether you’re a music lover, a runner, or someone who just loves an underdog story, this is one debut you won’t want to miss. As Netflix puts it, “They’re not just marching to the beat — they’re running it.”