The Debut (CTC)

When Mona Friedman is cast in a bit part at a small community theatre, she transforms from a shy, unassuming housewife into a zealous method actor willing to do anything to protect the artistic integrity of her role. Her uncompromising approach puts her at odds with the show’s irritable and domineering director, Jerry who is on a mission to rein in Mona’s growing ego. As their visions collide, Mona’s newfound confidence begins to transform her life in ways she could have never imagined.

Cast: Julianne Moore, Paul Giamatti, Halle Bailey, Jesse Eisenberg, Cara Buono, Bernadette Peters, Craig Bierko, Eldar Isgandarov, Havana Rose Liu, Colton Ryan, Lilli Cooper, Maulik Pancholy

Director: Jessie Eisenberg

★★★★★ "The Debut is hilarious with a well written and snappy script from Eisenberg and a great performance from Moore." FLICKERING MYTH

★★★★★ "[Jesse Eisenberg has] proven his talent as a director twice previously, but The Debut is his most accomplished film to date. It’s whip-smart and exceptionally funny." TIME OUT

★★★★★ "It's wildly funny, unexpectedly moving, and performed with such breathtaking commitment that watching it becomes its own kind of theatrical high." JAM REPORT

★★★★★ "The Debut is hilarious until suddenly it isn’t; heartbreaking until something completely ridiculous makes you laugh again; theatrical in its construction whilst becoming increasingly cinematic in its execution." AU REVIEW

★★★★★ "quite clearly one of the most shatteringly good movies of the year — showcasing one of the most incredible, and endearing, acting tours-de-force of a lifetime." CBC

★★★★★ "You are watching a woman who can’t act being played by a woman who very much can, and the result is as psychologically scrambling as it is spiritually elating" DAILY TELEGRAPH UK

★★★★½  "A movie that former and current theatre kids will love." LOUD AND CLEAR

★★★★½  "As an actor, writer, and director, Eisenberg deserves a standing ovation as the curtain closes." CINEMATIC REEL

★★★★ "Eisenberg’s obvious love of amateur dramatics provides The Debut with a foundation that feels akin to a warm hug." EYE FOR FILM