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The Only Girl in the Orchestra
The Only Girl in the Orchestra film poster.jpg
Netflix release poster
Directed by
  • Molly O'Brien
Produced by
  • Molly O'Brien
  • Lisa Remington
Starring
  • Orin O'Brien
Music by Laura Karpman
Cinematography
  • Martina Radwan
Editing by
  • Monique Zavistovski
Studio
  • LFR INDUSTRIES
Distributed by Netflix
Release date(s) November 9, 2023 (2023-11-09) (DOC NYC)
December 4, 2024 (2024-12-04) (Netflix)
Running time 35 minutes
Country
  • United States
Language English

The Only Girl in the Orchestra is a 2023 American musical short documentary film directed by Molly O'Brien. It had its world premiere on November 9, 2023, at DOC NYC in SHORTS: SHE STORIES section. It was released globally on December 4, 2024 by Netflix.

The film won Best Documentary Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards.

Summary

Orin O'Brien, a trailblazing double bassist, became the New York Philharmonic's first female musician in 1966, hired by Leonard Bernstein. Now 87 and recently retired, she reflects on her remarkable career, valuing a quiet, supportive role for loved ones and students. The documentary by her niece, Molly O’Brien, highlights Orin’s impact and her belief that fulfillment lies in embracing a secondary role.

Cast

  • Orin O'Brien as herself
  • Carlos Barriento as himself
  • Leonard Bernstein as himself (archival footage)

Release

The film was showcased in the Vail Film Festival on December 9, 2023. In April 2024, the film was showcased at the 26th RiverRun International Film Festival. In June 2024, it was featured in the Shorts Program: One-of-a-Kind of DC/DOX.

The film was showcased at the Doc NYC on November 14, 2024 in the Short List shorts, Extraordinary People.

Accolades

Award Date of ceremony Category Recipient(s) Result Ref.
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Film Festival April 25, 2024 Best Short Documentary The Only Girl in the Orchestra Won
Critics' Choice Documentary Awards November 10, 2024 Best Short Documentary Won
Cinema Eye Honors January 9, 2025 Outstanding Non-Fiction Short Shortlisted
Academy Awards March 2, 2025 Best Documentary Short Film Molly O'Brien and Lisa Remington Won

See also

  • Submissions for Best Documentary Short Academy Award
  • Maestro - 2023 Bradley Cooper biopic about Leonard Bernstein
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