Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 Stars)
Released 11-01-2024
Watched 01-25-2024
Reviewed 01-29-2025
Watched on Hulu

"Yeah. I mean, he's always been, like, up and down, you know? Like, he's sensitive, and he, like, sees people so clearly, you know? But then you say the wrong thing and, like, something switches."
Jesse Eisenberg's A Real Pain is a 2024 comedy-drama that balances humor and emotional depth as it explores familial ties and the weight of historical grief. The film centers on David and Benji, Jewish American cousins portrayed by Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin, as they travel to Poland following the death of their grandmother. What begins as a simple trip to connect with their heritage becomes a layered exploration of their personalities, past, and the tragedies their ancestors endured.
David is an introverted character with a stable family life, while Benji is more spontaneous and emotionally volatile. Their contrasting dispositions create a dynamic that is often humorous but also emotionally charged as they confront their individual identities and shared history. Eisenberg and Culkin’s chemistry shines, bringing authenticity to their strained yet affectionate relationship.
The journey takes a serious turn when the cousins join a Holocaust memorial tour. This shift introduces a heavier tone as they navigate the emotional weight of visiting historical sites linked to their heritage. The film’s attempts to blend its comedic road-trip elements with somber reflections on the Holocaust can feel uneven, occasionally struggling to balance the tonal shifts. Still, these moments provide emotional depth and highlight the cousins’ growing understanding of their roots.
Visually, the movie benefits from its authentic setting, using real locations in Poland to ground its story in history. This attention to detail adds a poignant realism to the narrative. However, the pacing sometimes falters, with some scenes lingering longer than necessary, which can detract from the film’s emotional resonance.
While A Real Pain succeeds in capturing the humor and heartache of its central characters’ journey, its ambitious blend of genres doesn’t always land smoothly. It remains a heartfelt exploration of identity, grief, and family that will likely resonate most with viewers who appreciate stories about personal growth and cultural connection.
This film earns a three-star rating for its heartfelt performances and earnest storytelling, even if it doesn’t fully deliver a seamless narrative experience.
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