Banner at the San Diego International Film Festival 2025
San Diego International Film Festival Celebrates 25 Years with The Debut
The San Diego International Film Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary with a memorable opening night at THE LOT in La Jolla on October 14, 2026. My husband and I attended the premiere of A24’s The Debut, followed by a lively after-party.
Opening Night Film: The Debut
San Diego Film Festival The Debut
Written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg, who also stars in the film, The Debut follows a housewife who lands a small role in a community theater musical and takes her newfound passion for acting to unexpected extremes. Julianne Moore was phenomenal! Her performance brings humor, intensity, and a touch of absurdity to a story about ambition, recognition, and the desire to be taken seriously. Paul Giamatti adds to the fun as the demanding theater director. I love the movie. One clever touch was receiving an actual Playbill for Nosy Neighbors, the fictional musical featured in the movie. As a theater enthusiast, I particularly appreciated that detail!
San Diego Film Festival The Debut Playbill
An Opening Night Worth Celebrating
After the screening, the celebration continued with music, dancing, and plenty of conversation. We also had the pleasure of meeting Shawn Styles, meteorologist at CBS 8, and taking a few photos together.
Suzette Valle with her husband and Shawn Styles CBS8 at the San Diego Film Festival 2026
Having attended the festival over the years, I’ve always appreciated the opportunity to discover new films and meet people who share a passion for cinema.
Congratulations to the San Diego International Film Festival on 25 years of bringing great storytelling to our city!
Film: The Debut
Studio: A24
Writer and director: Jesse Eisenberg
Cast: Julianne Moore, Paul Giamatti, Jesse Eisenberg
Event: 25th San Diego International Film Festival Opening Night
Location: THE LOT, La Jolla, California
The Debut opens in theaters December 11, 2026.
Have you ever attended a film festival? I’d love to hear about your experience.
Disclosure: I attended opening night as an invited guest in exchange for coverage. All opinions are my own.
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