Jesse Eisenberg's musical-comedy, The Debut, received a warm reception as it wrapped up this year's BFI London Film Festival. The film, which stars Julianne Moore as Mona, a neglected housewife finding solace in community theater, was introduced by Eisenberg and Moore to an appreciative audience, marked by laughter and applause throughout the screening. Paul Giamatti, who plays the theater director Jerry, was absent due to COVID-19.

Speaking earlier in the day at a Screen Talk session, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Eisenberg candidly expressed his profound connection to the project. "I love it more than I’ve ever loved anything I’ve made," he told the outlet on the red carpet, highlighting its blend of music, absurdism, heart, and humor derived from "depressed people, but in funny situations." He also emphasized that the film, his second directorial feature after When You Finish Saving the World, would not have materialized without Moore's involvement.

Julianne Moore reciprocated the sentiment, praising Eisenberg's unique talent. Having previously worked with him on his directorial debut, she stated, "I think he’s really a special, special writer, extraordinary director." Moore was particularly struck by the script for The Debut, calling it "one of the best scripts I’ve read in my life." Her enthusiasm for Eisenberg's vision and empathy for his characters underscores the strong creative partnership between the two.

Beyond The Debut, Eisenberg also unveiled details about his next venture: an upcoming TV series for A24 and former Disney and Fox executive Peter Rice. The show is set in the fall of 2002 and centers on an 18-year-old girl. Eisenberg described it as exploring "the beginning of the culture wars that we’re in now," while noting it's not "pretentious or overly political, or maybe it is pretentious. That’s for you to decide, The Hollywood Reporter."

Eisenberg also reflected on the often-stressful aspects of the film industry, particularly the festival circuit and awards campaigns. While acknowledging the pressure, he shared an anecdote about his father's advice during his own Oscar nomination. His dad reminded him of the immense privilege of being part of such events, shifting Eisenberg's perspective from anxiety to gratitude. This newfound outlook helps him navigate the promotional aspects, allowing him to appreciate the core artistic endeavor.

The Debut first premiered at the Telluride Film Festival and is slated for a U.S. theatrical release on December 11, following its successful run on the festival circuit and its closing night honor at the London Film Festival.