In a groundbreaking move that has captivated fans of collegiate tradition and music lovers alike, Netflix has officially announced the release of its newest original documentary, titled “The Best in the World: The Buckeye Beat.” The film serves as a poignant tribute to one of America’s most celebrated college marching bands—the Ohio State University Marching Band (OSUMB), affectionately known as “The Best Damn Band in the Land” (TBDBITL).
The documentary, described by Netflix executives as a “heartfelt bombshell,” dives deep into the passion, precision, and pageantry of the OSUMB. With a scheduled global release set for August 15, 2025, the documentary is already generating Oscar buzz and is expected to draw millions of viewers worldwide.
A Legacy Forged in Sound and Steel
Founded in 1878, the Ohio State Marching Band has evolved from a modest musical ensemble into a cultural phenomenon that transcends college athletics. Today, TBDBITL boasts 225 members and is revered not just for its musical mastery, but also for its legendary field performances and intricate formations—most notably, the world-famous “Script Ohio.”
The documentary captures the spirit of this proud tradition, tracing its evolution through archival footage, behind-the-scenes access, and interviews with current band members, alumni, and iconic band directors including Dr. Jon Woods, Dr. Christopher Hoch, and others who shaped TBDBITL’s legacy.
Behind the Curtain: The Making of ‘The Best in the World’
Produced by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ava Reynolds, with original scoring by renowned composer Hans Zimmer, the documentary took nearly two years to complete. Reynolds and her team were granted unprecedented access to Ohio State’s band facilities, gameday rituals, tryouts, and even personal lives of students who live and breathe music.
“We wanted to show more than just halftime performances. We wanted to show the grit, the heartbreak, the camaraderie, and the pure joy that defines what it means to be a Buckeye bandsman,” said Reynolds in a statement.
Zimmer’s contribution brings a cinematic grandeur to the documentary, which seamlessly blends real-time audio from practice fields and stadiums with sweeping orchestral scores that elevate the emotional resonance of each scene.
“More Than a Band”: Human Stories Take Center Stage
One of the most touching elements of the film is its focus on the human experience behind the uniform.
The story follows five primary band members:
- Emily Santos, a piccolo player from Lima, Ohio, who overcame scoliosis to earn her place in the band.
- Tyler Chen, a first-generation student from Cincinnati whose immigrant parents never fully understood American football, but fell in love with OSU through their son’s performances.
- Brianna Evans, a field commander battling anxiety while shouldering the weight of leadership.
- Jake Wilcox, a trumpet player who experienced personal tragedy just days before his first game at Ohio Stadium.
- Aaliyah Johnson, the band’s first Black female snare drum section leader, who broke barriers and inspired many.
Each narrative thread weaves into the larger fabric of the OSUMB community, showcasing the diversity, determination, and heart that defines the band’s makeup.
“Script Ohio” and Game Day Magic
No documentary on the Ohio State Marching Band would be complete without a deep dive into the most sacred of Buckeye traditions: “Script Ohio.” This intricate, moving formation performed to “Le Régiment de Sambre et Meuse” is regarded by fans as one of the most iconic visuals in college football history.
With multiple drone cameras and time-lapse cinematography, viewers are given a never-before-seen perspective of this hallowed performance. The film also includes a historical segment detailing the origins of the Script, which dates back to 1936, and features exclusive commentary from band historians and former drum majors.
“When you dot the ‘i’, you’re not just stepping into a position—you’re stepping into a legacy,” says 2024 i-dotter Marcus Reid, in one of the documentary’s most emotionally resonant moments.
Netflix’s Strategic Play into Collegiate Americana
Netflix’s decision to spotlight the Ohio State Marching Band isn’t just about celebrating one school—it represents a broader commitment to telling deeply American, culturally resonant stories. Coming off the success of sports docuseries like “Last Chance U” and “Cheer,” the streaming giant saw an opportunity to tap into the unique culture of college marching bands, a world filled with athleticism, performance art, and emotional storytelling.
“This is a love letter to tradition. It’s Friday night lights meets Tchaikovsky,” said Netflix VP of Original Content, Sarah Whittaker.
Netflix has hinted that “The Best in the World” could be the first installment in a series exploring elite college bands, with possible future episodes featuring groups from Texas A&M, Michigan, and Southern University.
Reaction from the Ohio State Community
The announcement has sparked overwhelming excitement in Columbus and among Buckeyes worldwide. Ohio State President Ted Carter released a statement expressing gratitude to Netflix, calling the documentary a “celebration of our university’s soul.”
“This band is the heartbeat of Ohio Stadium. To see their story shared on a global stage is beyond meaningful—it’s historic,” said Carter.
Meanwhile, social media has exploded with support. Within hours of the trailer’s drop, hashtags like #BuckeyeBeat, #TBDBITLNetflix, and #ScriptOhioOnScreen began trending on X (formerly Twitter).
Even former OSU football stars like Ezekiel Elliott, Justin Fields, and CJ Stroud shared the trailer, expressing their emotional connection to the band that played behind them every fall Saturday.
Educational and Inspirational Impact
Beyond entertainment, the documentary serves as an educational tool. Several school districts in Ohio and across the U.S. are planning to incorporate it into music and performing arts curricula. The documentary emphasizes themes of:
- Teamwork
- Mental health
- Diversity and inclusion
- Historical relevance
- Civic pride
The Ohio Department of Education has even announced a statewide viewing initiative titled “Marching to Excellence,” encouraging students to draw inspiration from the OSUMB’s discipline and artistry.
A Nod to the Alumni
“The Best in the World” also pays tribute to generations of alumni who have kept the Buckeye Band tradition alive through alumni performances, fundraising, and mentoring programs. The film closes with a powerful mass performance featuring nearly 600 former band members joining current students in a full-field rendition of “Hang On Sloopy” during Homecoming weekend—a scene guaranteed to move even non-Buckeyes to tears.
“We are not just musicians. We are family. We are Ohio,” says alumna and band historian Linda Strickland, as the credits begin to roll.
Final Thoughts: Why This Documentary Matters
In a world increasingly driven by technology and rapid change, tradition still matters. The Ohio State Marching Band reminds us of the power of legacy, unity, and sound.
Netflix’s “The Best in the World: The Buckeye Beat” is more than a documentary—it’s a symphonic journey into the heart of what it means to belong, to strive, and to inspire. It’s about how a single note played in unison can echo louder than the roar of 100,000 fans.
Whether you’re a diehard Buckeye, a lover of music, or simply someone in search of a powerful story, this film promises to strike the perfect chord.
How to Watch:
- Title: The Best in the World: The Buckeye Beat
- Streaming: Exclusively on Netflix
- Release Date: August 15, 2025
- Runtime: 1 hour, 48 minutes
- Rating: PG (for mild language and emotional content)
- Languages: English (with subtitles in 14 languages)
