Jesse Eisenberg and Julianne Moore Discuss 'The Debut' and Future Projects

Jesse Eisenberg wrote, directed, produced, scored, and stars in the A24 musical comedy 'The Debut.' The film centers on Julianne Moore, who plays Mona Friedman, a shy housewife who auditions for a community theater production for the first time. Eisenberg crafted the role specifically for Moore, marking their second collaboration after 'When You Finish Saving the World.'

The film had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival, where it received positive reviews. It has since screened at the Toronto, New York, and Middleburg Film Festivals. A24 will release the movie in theaters on December 11. Moore, who has received five Academy Award nominations, previously won for her performance in 'Still Alice.' Eisenberg holds nominations for best actor for 'The Social Network' and best original screenplay for 'A Real Pain.'

Eisenberg described the premiere experience as a mix of relief and anxiety. When the audience applauded during a mid-film confrontation between Moore and Paul Giamatti, Eisenberg immediately worried about the transition to the next dramatic scene. He told Variety, 'Oh no! Can they go on the ride?' He noted that his paranoia often leads to panic when audience reactions are strong but the narrative momentum shifts.

The director explained that the film’s visual style is subjective, designed to reflect the protagonist’s internal state. He said he heightened the emotional tone by 20 percent in every scene. If Moore’s character felt fear, the setting became a terrifying 1920s cityscape; if she felt welcome, the character Halle Bailey appeared to offer sisterhood. Eisenberg stated that the fantastical elements serve to illustrate the character’s journey from invisibility to finding community.

Moore described her character as completely original on the page. She said, 'I’m so lucky to embody someone right on the brink of change.' Moore emphasized that the story explores the universal desire to try something new without knowing the outcome. She viewed the film as a depiction of a creative journey that occurs through collaboration and community, rather than in isolation.

Eisenberg praised Moore’s unique ability to blend humor with drama. He said he gets 'pissed off' reading reviews of her previous work that focus solely on depth and darkness without acknowledging her comic timing. He argued that her 'funny bone within drama' is rare and often removed by formal drama school training. He noted that this quality is a major reason for his continued collaboration with her.

The pair discussed the industry’s use of artificial intelligence. Eisenberg mentioned testing AI to 'Make Sure It’s Bad.' He also expressed hope for a fourth installment in the 'Now You See Me' franchise. When asked about the title of their current film, Eisenberg recalled a friend suggesting 'Rent' because the plot involves the character securing her lease, though he decided against the name to avoid comic confusion.

Moore and Eisenberg also addressed the dynamics of their professional relationship. Eisenberg joked that Todd Haynes, Moore’s frequent collaborator, 'gets it' regarding Eisenberg’s attachment to her. Moore stated that it is rewarding to be part of a director’s creative process. She noted that Eisenberg focuses on everyday emotional stakes, such as whether a meeting goes well, rather than relying on large-scale catastrophes to drive tension.