A Real Pain is a story of rekindling a familial bond and navigating grief. David (Jesse Eisenberg) and Benji’s (Keiran Culkin) grandmother has passed. The two cousins used to be very close, but the act of aging has left them to drift. Attempting to reconnect, they have decided to take a pilgrimage to Poland. On this journey they take a Holocaust heritage tour, with the added goal of visiting their late grandmother’s house. As the pair ingratiate themselves in with the tour group, the stark differences in their personalities and perspectives emerge. David is a nervous rule-follower armed with etiquette. Benji is carefree and bombastic, lacking any social filter. As David watches Benji flit, he oscillates between embarrassment and admiration.
What works in A Real Pain is the fantastic balance between heart and humor. Writer and director Jesse Eisenberg has crafted an incredible script, and his translation of it is masterful. Every beat, tone, shot, and facial tick have been meticulously woven together. As such, A Real Pain is a symphony of emotions that always feels intentional and sincere. It effortlessly tackles deep philosophical conundrums, while also pausing to let the audience enjoy Benji’s shenanigans. And it is Culkin’s performance that is A Real Pain’s secret weapon. Benji is both unlike anyone you’ve ever met, and yet is still incredibly familiar. You love him one moment and cringe the next. His character alone is worth the price of admission, and his parables will stick with you after the credits.
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There are a few triggers in A Real Pain that may affect people’s enjoyment. First, there are several heavy and poignant moments related to the atrocities committed upon the Jewish people. While these are covered with incredible respect, they could emotionally affect watchers. Next, several deep issues of mental health come up, which again may make some uncomfortable. Finally (on feeling uncomfortable), many of the jokes are the result of awkward situations. More often than not, Benji does or says something that could produce an involuntary wince. People’s enjoyment of this style of comedy will likely influence their overall feelings about the film.
A Real Pain is an impressive work of cinema, and one of the best films of 2024. With a tone and style all its own, the film engages audiences in a multitude of ways. Highly recommended.
Recommended if you enjoyed: The Holdovers, The Kids are Alright, The Zone of Interest
A Real Pain is now available to see in theaters.
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