All Films

The Debut (Opening Night)

Directed by Jesse Eisenberg
United States
2026
105 mins

They say there are no small parts, only small actors, and never has the saying been taken more seriously than by Julianne Moore’s Mona Friedman in The Debut. Cast in a bit part at a small community theater, Mona transforms from a shy, unassuming housewife into a zealous method actor willing to do anything to protect the artistic integrity of her marginal role – even if it means waging war against the show’s domineering director (Paul Giamatti).

In what’s sure to become one of this year’s most beloved performances, Moore brings an effervescent energy to writer-director Jesse Eisenberg’s loving ode to community theater.

Get in the GEMS spirit with a pre-party on the lawn at Koubek Center! Drinks and food will be supplied. Parking is available on site or two blocks away at Padron Campus.

Tickets

Thursday October 296pm

Koubek Center

  • Year
    2026
  • Country
    United States
  • Language
    English
  • Premiere Status
    Florida Premiere
  • Director
    Jesse Eisenberg
  • Producer
    Emma Stone, Dave McCary, Ali Herting, Jesse Eisenberg
  • Writer
    Jesse Eisenberg
  • Cinematographer
    Drew Daniels
  • Editor
    Robert Nassau, ACE
  • Genre
    Comedy
  • Theme
    Theater, Famous Faces
  • Award
    Special Presentation

Join the festival insider

Stay up to date with upcoming releases, exclusive events and festival news