Jesse Eisenberg’s new film is officially in the works, and he’s calling it “completely joyful and unhinged.”
Coming off the success of A Real Pain, which scored him an Oscar nom for Best Original Screenplay, Eisenberg is switching things up with a musical that sounds anything but ordinary.
The project doesn’t have a title yet, but it’s already making waves. Backed by A24 and Emma Stone’s Fruit Tree banner, the movie stars Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti, along with a stacked supporting cast including Halle Bailey, Bernadette Peters, Colton Ryan, and more.
So what’s this thing about? According to the official synopsis, Moore plays a shy woman who somehow ends up in a community theatre musical – and then goes completely overboard as she gets lost in the role. Eisenberg, who also stars in the film, is writing the original songs and lyrics himself, adding his own twist to the chaotic theater energy.
Speaking to Variety, Jesse said: “It’s completely joyful and unhinged. I wanted to create something that celebrates the chaos and catharsis of community theatre.”
If the behind-the-scenes talent is any sign, this film’s going to be a vibe. Steven Gizicki, the music supervisor behind La La Land, is on board. Bill Sherman from In the Heights is executive music producer, and the choreography is being handled by Broadway legend Andy Blankenbuehler, best known for Hamilton. Cinematography is in the hands of Drew Daniels, who most recently shot Anora.
Emma Stone is producing again alongside Dave McCary and Ali Herting for Fruit Tree, with Topic Studios joining as executive producers.
This film marks Eisenberg’s second go-around with A24 after When You Finish Saving the World, and it feels like he’s really leaning into this mix of deep emotion and creative chaos that’s becoming his signature.
Considering how A Real Pain hit hard with critics and audiences – especially Kieran Culkin’s Oscar-winning role – expectations are high. But if Eisenberg’s calling this new one unhinged, it sounds like we’re in for something a lot more wild, messy, and maybe even kind of hilarious.
Excited to see Jesse Eisenberg go full musical mode?
