“A Real Pain” is the second film directed by Jesse Eisenberg, who also stars in it alongside Kieran Culkin. The movie had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 20, 2024, where Eisenberg was awarded the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award.
The story follows two American cousins, David (Eisenberg) and Benji (Culkin), who travel to Poland after their grandmother’s death to explore their family roots and understand their Jewish heritage. They join a historical tour about the Holocaust, which leads them to confront both their family history and their personal traumas.
The film has been praised for its balance of humor and introspection. According to The Times, Eisenberg approaches the connection between American Jews, their Polish roots, and the Holocaust with sensitivity and wit. The dynamic between the cousins—Benji being more uninhibited and David more reserved—adds depth and appeal to the narrative.
“A Real Pain” has received positive reviews, holding a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and has been named one of the best films of 2024 by the National Board of Review and the American Film Institute.
The movie was released in U.S. theaters on November 1, 2024, earning over $900,000 during its limited opening. Due to its success, it expanded to a nationwide release. In the United Kingdom, A Real Pain hit theaters on January 10, 2025.
Currently, the film is exclusively available in cinemas, with a Hulu release expected on January 17, 2025, following Kieran Culkin’s recent Golden Globe win for Best Supporting Actor.
“A Real Pain” masterfully blends elements of comedy and drama to explore profound themes such as identity, historical memory, and family relationships. The chemistry between Eisenberg and Culkin, coupled with a well-crafted script, delivers a cinematic experience that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.
For those looking for a film that offers both laughs and moments of introspection, A Real Pain is a highly recommended choice on the current movie roster.
CREDITS:
Director: Alejandro Bernal
Text: Max Hackenbroich
