Written by David Levy Pascal. Header illustration courtesy of Taylor Eby (@taylor_eb14)
On Monday night, October 28th, hundreds of people gathered outside the theater, eagerly waiting to see A Real Pain and to catch a glimpse of its lead actor, Virtuoso Award Honoree Kieran Culkin. Directed by Jesse Eisenberg, this dramedy stars both Eisenberg and Culkin as estranged cousins, David and Benji, who embark on an emotional journey through Poland to honor their recently deceased grandmother. Set against the poignant backdrop of Jewish historical sites, the film explores the complex ways heritage, grief, and family intersect. The cousins, who clash as often as they connect, must confront buried family tensions and deep-seated emotions tied to their Jewish identity. Through humor, conflict, and heartache, “A Real Pain” examines what it means to grapple with both personal grievances and a shared legacy.
When the movie was announced a few months before that thrilling night, I was already anticipating it—not only because the film’s themes resonate with me as a member of the Jewish community and grandchild of a Holocaust survivor, but also because of its intriguing cast. After an hour of waiting, I finally made it into the theater, settling into my seat as the lights dimmed and anticipation built. The presenter took the stage to announce Kieran Culkin’s award, and the theater erupted with applause, capturing the immense excitement in the room. True to form, Culkin delivered an acceptance speech that blended humor with heartfelt gratitude, setting the perfect tone for the film to follow.
As the movie began, it instantly captivated the audience. Eisenberg’s distinctive presence on screen, combined with his knack for subtly awkward humor, had everyone hooked from the first scene. The script is full of sharp, relatable moments, drawing laughter as well as emotional connection from the crowd. The story unfolds with a clever balance of lighthearted humor and heavier, introspective moments, making the audience both laugh and reflect. It’s a film that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable, touching on real-life issues that many can connect with on an emotional level.
Visually, A Real Pain is stunning. The cinematography is rich and evocative, capturing Poland’s landscapes with an eye for both beauty and history. Each frame feels intentional, transforming the scenery into more than just a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right, embodying the weight of memory and legacy. The serene yet somber visuals perfectly complement the emotional journey of David and Benji as they navigate the complexities of their family’s past. The visual storytelling makes the film not just compelling to watch, but also hauntingly beautiful.
Kieran Culkin’s performance is undoubtedly one of the film’s highlights. He brings a rawness to Benji that resonates, making his character’s humor and pain feel deeply authentic. Culkin’s portrayal allows us to see the internal struggles that fuel Benji’s interactions with David, adding layers to a character who could have easily come across as one-dimensional. Eisenberg, meanwhile, embodies David with his characteristic awkward charm, creating a character that’s both frustrating and endearing. The chemistry between Culkin and Eisenberg is palpable, and their dynamic as estranged cousins is compelling, bringing both humor and tension to their interactions.
However, despite the film’s many strengths, it feels as if something essential is missing. The movie’s exploration of family and identity hints at greater depths but doesn’t fully dive into them. We see glimpses of the cousins’ grief, resentment, and unresolved conflicts, yet the narrative never fully explores these themes. There’s an emotional richness in their shared history that feels underdeveloped, leaving the characters’ motivations and backstories slightly opaque. A deeper dive into their past and a more thorough examination of their relationship would have elevated the story, giving the audience a more profound understanding of what truly drives Benji and David.
The ending, too, while touching, falls short of delivering the emotional resolution the journey seemed to promise. After traveling through both physical and emotional landscapes, it would have been more satisfying to see Benji and David reach a place of true reconciliation. The film concludes on a note that feels slightly unfinished, leaving the relationship between the cousins without the full closure it deserves. A more conclusive ending could have provided a stronger sense of healing, not just between the two characters but also with the legacy of their shared heritage.
In conclusion, A Real Pain is a beautifully crafted and entertaining film that tackles complex themes with humor and sensitivity. Its visual appeal, clever storytelling, and standout performances—especially from Kieran Culkin—make it a memorable viewing experience. While the film could have benefited from deeper character exploration and a more emotionally resonant conclusion, it remains a poignant exploration of family, loss, and identity. Despite its imperfections, A Real Pain offers a journey that speaks to the challenges of confronting the past and finding connection in the present, leaving a lasting impression on those who watch.
