The Only Girl in the Orchestra is a 2023 American musical documentary short film directed by Molly O'Brien. It had its world premiere on November 9, 2023, at Doc NYC (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 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.
Reception Paul Emmanuel Enicola reviewing the film at Doc NYC graded it A− and wrote, "Delightfully insightful and criminally short, The Only Girl in the Orchestra serves as a masterclass not only on how to make it in music; but also how to succeed in life."
Accolades Award Date of ceremony Category Recipient(s) Result Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Film Festival April 25, 2024 Best Short DocumentaryThe Only Girl in the Orchestra Critics' Choice Documentary Awards November 10, 2024 Best Short Documentary Cinema Eye Honors January 9, 2025 Outstanding Non-Fiction Short Academy AwardsMarch 2, 2025 Best Documentary Short Film Molly O'Brien and Lisa Remington
See also Submissions for Best Documentary Short Academy Award Maestro (2023 Bradley Cooper biopic about Leonard Bernstein)
References
External links
Official trailer on YouTube