Jesse Eisenberg's upcoming musical comedy has added a stellar cast, including Halle Bailey, Havana Rose Liu, and Bernadette Peters, according to a report on April 17, 2025. The film, which remains untitled, marks a reunion for Eisenberg and producer Emma Stone, who previously collaborated on the film A Real Pain. Stone is not only producing but also developing the project alongside Eisenberg, who is set to star in the film.
The plot centers around a reserved woman who loses herself in a community theatre musical production. This narrative promises to explore themes of self-discovery and the transformative power of art, a familiar territory for Eisenberg, who has a knack for blending drama with humor.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast that includes Julianne Moore, Paul Giamatti, Lilli Cooper, Bonnie Milligan, Eldar Isgandarov, Colton Ryan, and Maulik Pancholy. Eisenberg has taken on the dual role of writer and composer, crafting both the script and the original music and lyrics for the film.
Production is being handled by Topic Studios, with Stone's Fruit Tree banner also involved. Eisenberg's collaboration with Stone is particularly noteworthy, as they have developed a strong professional relationship through their previous projects.
Halle Bailey, known for her role as Ariel in Disney's The Little Mermaid (2023), is one of the exciting additions to the cast. Her recent performances in The Color Purple (2023) and various Disney Channel shows have solidified her status as a rising star in Hollywood. Meanwhile, Havana Rose Liu, who gained recognition for her role as Isabel in Emma Seligman's Bottoms, is also set to bring her talents to this musical comedy. Liu's recent work in the third season of American Horror Stories further showcases her versatility as an actress.
Bernadette Peters, a celebrated stage actress, rounds out the cast. Peters has a rich history in both theatre and film, with notable performances in classics like The Longest Yard (1974) and Annie (1982). Her presence in the film adds a layer of gravitas and experience that is sure to benefit the production.
In a parallel development, Judd Apatow is also working on music-related films, including a comedy about a floundering country music star, which he is co-writing with Glen Powell. This film is being fast-tracked by Universal, with Powell set to star alongside Apatow. The intersection of comedy and music seems to be a popular trend in Hollywood, as both Eisenberg and Apatow explore these themes in their respective projects.
A24, the studio behind Eisenberg's film, has been making waves in the industry with its own record label since 2021. The label has released soundtracks for various films, including the indie hit I Saw The TV Glow and the score for Everything Everywhere All At Once. Recently, A24 teased an announcement on Instagram regarding their music division, hinting at possible new directions for the label. "A24 Music. Stay tuned," the post read, leaving fans speculating about future releases.
The collaboration between Eisenberg, Stone, and A24 signifies a strong commitment to innovative storytelling through music and performance. The film is anticipated to resonate with audiences, especially those who appreciate heartfelt narratives interwoven with musical elements.
As the film moves forward in production, the excitement surrounding the project continues to build. With a talented cast and a creative team dedicated to delivering a unique cinematic experience, Eisenberg's untitled musical comedy is poised to capture the hearts of viewers. The film's exploration of identity and artistic expression is likely to strike a chord, making it a must-watch when it eventually hits theaters.
