The multi-talented Jesse Eisenberg has expanded his creative footprint with 'The Debut,' taking on the roles of director and, as now revealed, primary songwriter. The film, an A24 production, features Julianne Moore as a housewife cast in a community theater production. Eisenberg's musical contributions are substantial, with the seven original songs accounting for nearly an hour of the film's runtime.

Among these original compositions, "This City May Have Chewed Me Up (But It Hasn’t Spit Me Out)" has emerged as A24's top priority for an Academy Award push. While studios have the option to submit up to three songs for consideration (with a maximum of two nominations), A24 is focusing its efforts on this specific track, which Moore delivers in the movie. It remains possible that other songs from 'The Debut' could also be put forward for Oscar contention.

The competitive landscape for Best Original Song this season includes a diverse array of artists. Taylor Swift is in contention with “I Knew It, I Knew You” from Toy Story 5, Travis Scott with “When I’m Home” from The Odyssey, and David Byrne with “Let Me Sell You a Dream” from Musk. The Backstreet Boys could see a nod for “Bottle Up” from Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie, SZA for “Save the Day” from Hoppers, and the ever-present Diane Warren for “By Any Means” from By Any Means.

In addition to Eisenberg's songwriting, the film's musical tapestry is further enriched by an original score composed by Emile Mosseri, an acclaimed artist previously nominated for a Best Original Score Oscar for his work on Minari.

Following its Telluride debut, 'The Debut' is set to continue its festival run with screenings at the Toronto, New York, and Zurich film festivals. During the Zurich festival, Julianne Moore will be honored with a lifetime achievement award. The film is slated for a limited theatrical release on December 11, with a wider release planned for the Christmas holiday season.