Eisenberg closes London Film Festival with The Debut and reveals new TV show

Jesse Eisenberg closed the 70th BFI London Film Festival on Sunday 18 October 2026 with The Debut, his musical-comedy starring Julianne Moore, and used the occasion to reveal he has written a new television series.

The Closing Night Gala gave the film its UK premiere at Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London. The screening was listed for 19:15, with linked screenings held around the United Kingdom, according to the BFI BFI. The festival’s special events programme ran from 7 to 18 October.

The Debut stars Moore as Mona, a neglected housewife who is cast in a community theatre production. That production is directed by Jerry, played by Paul Giamatti, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Eisenberg is credited as the film’s writer-director.

Giamatti did not make it to London. Eisenberg told the audience his co-star had COVID and could not attend the closing screening. Eisenberg also said the film would not have been made without Moore’s involvement.

For audiences, the set-up is simple. A woman overlooked at home steps onto a local stage. A small amateur show becomes the centre of her life.

The night also brought news of what Eisenberg has written next. He said he has written a television show for A24, the independent film and television company, and former Disney and Fox executive Peter Rice. The series follows an 18-year-old girl in the autumn of 2002. Eisenberg described it as a story about the beginning of the culture wars.

Eisenberg spoke during a busy London visit. He also gave a Screen Talk at the festival exploring his work in front of and behind the camera, according to the BFI’s festival listing BFI. The Debut had already played on the festival circuit at Vancouver.

There is more festival travel ahead for the film’s two leads. Moore will receive a lifetime achievement honour at the Rome Film Festival, and Eisenberg will present the award to her, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Fundraising tickets for the London closing gala were priced at £250.