A24 has distributed the promotional trailer for “The Debut,” a comedy-drama that serves as the third directorial effort from writer-director Jesse Eisenberg. The film features cinematography by Drew Daniels, known for his work on “Anora,” and an original score composed by Emil Mosseri.
The film stars Julianne Moore as Mona Friedman, an introverted stay-at-home mother who decides to audition for a local, original musical production on a whim. Upon securing a minor role, she becomes intensely absorbed in her character, adopting a zealous style of method acting to defend her marginal position within the performance. Her newfound dedication places her in a direct clash with the production’s overbearing director, Jerry, portrayed by Paul Giamatti.
The trailer establishes Jerry as a legendary figure in the regional arts landscape, calling him “the biggest name in New Jersey community theater.” Despite the humor implicit in that description, he operates his rehearsals with severe discipline, demanding rigid excellence from his largely amateur cast. The trailer also underscores the rising tensions between the two leads as Jerry fiercely critiques Friedman’s artistic choices. Co-star Halle Bailey further highlights the high-stakes environment by warning Friedman that “Jerry is going to test you, and push you, and drag you through the mud.”
Although the plot centers around the creation of a theatrical production, the film is framed as a dark comedy-drama regarding the logistics and internal friction of amateur theater rather than a traditional musical. The project features a supporting ensemble cast that includes Craig Bierko, Cara Buono, Lilli Cooper, Eldar Isgandarov, Havana Rose Liu, Maulik Pancholy, Colton Ryan, and Bernadette Peters.
‘The Debut’ will premiere in theaters on December 11, 2026; see the trailer: HERE.
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