Eisenberg directs musical comedy about community theatre obsession

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 07:01 · Archive

Jesse Eisenberg has written and directed The Debut, a musical-comedy starring Julianne Moore as a housewife who becomes obsessed with a local community theatre musical. Eisenberg said he was inspired to base the film around musical theatre because 'it's the world I know' and 'the same thing that happened to me'.

The film explores how a shy woman 'finds her family and her home and her voice in the world of musical theatre'. Eisenberg explained that the character's story could have centred on any obsessive pursuit: 'For some people who are so in need of something, almost anything can fill that hole.' The cast includes Paul Giamatti as a domineering theatre director named Jerry.

Moore, who won an Oscar for Still Alice, said she valued the story of her character finding community. The film had its UK premiere at the BFI London Film Festival. Eisenberg praised his cast for their work ethic, saying they 'don't tell you about' their hard work but 'just come and do a great job'.

How it is being reported

• Eisenberg bases new film on musical community theatreUS actor Jesse Eisenberg has directed and written The Debut, a musical-comedy about a housewife who becomes obsessed with a local community theatre musical.The West Australian · 19 Oct, 06:53
• Eisenberg bases new film on musical community theatreUS actor Jesse Eisenberg has directed and written The Debut, a musical-comedy about a housewife who becomes obsessed with a local community theatre musical.Perth Now · 19 Oct, 06:52

In this story: Jesse Eisenberg · Julianne Moore · Paul Giamatti · BFI London Film Festival

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