Lisa Callif Appears on the “Legal Vision” Podcast Alongside Lisa Remington

Lisa Callif recently joined the “Legal Vision” podcast alongside longtime client and producer of Lisa Remington. In the episode entitled “The Oscar-Winning Intersection of Creativity and Legality – ‘The Only Girl in the Orchestra’” host and filmmaker Damien Swaby, explores the intersection of creativity and legality through the duos’ nuanced viewpoints as legal counsel and producer. Through direct case studies from past projects including “Countdown to Zero” and “Food and Country,” the episode dives into themes including differences in international film laws, navigation of fair use, balancing different perspectives on-set, and other firsthand learning moments.

The interview dives into Lisa Remington’s recent victory in the 2025 Oscars for her documentary, “The Only Girl in the Orchestra,” which celebrates double bassist Orin O’Brien, the New York Philharmonic’s first full-time women member. Despite initial concerns over the clearance of photographs and musical archives, Lisa Remington and Lisa Callif found the legal process to move smoothly due to the participation of involved parties. Lisa Remington recalls, “If the New York Philharmonic hadn’t been, in our camp, or if, you know, the Bernstein office, Leonard Bernstein’s family didn’t like the film, then that could have caused problems for us because we needed their permission to use some material. [Luckily], people would just wanted to celebrate Orin.” 

Lisa Remington had consulted DCP early in the film process due to their years of partnership. Lisa Callif expresses that a longtime relationship with legal counsel creates better instincts for producers because they start to understand how and when consultation will be needed for the project, advising “If you find a lawyer who you connect with [stay] with that lawyer.” She continues to stress the importance of collaboration between legal counsel and filmmakers, a framework that she values within the Firm. 

The Legal Vision podcast series, in collaboration with esteemed filmmaker and podcast host and producer Damien Swaby, is a pro bono project with the mission to inspire creators to explore necessary legal frameworks as they launch creative endeavors. The discussions and subject matter in this podcast do not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney before making any legal decisions.

View the full episode on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.