A Real Pain (2024) Review

Mismatched cousins Benji and David Kaplan reunite for a tour around Poland to honour their beloved grandmother, tensions will rise as they come to terms with the stages of life they are currently in.

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The opening scene really shows just how different David and Benji are on the way to the aiport, with the number of phonecalls that were made. It also sets everything up for the dynamic between the pair and how they then interact with the group, really highlighting just how if they weren’t related then they wouldn’t even know one another.

I truly was not expecting just how emotional this film was going to get though, I guess that was maybe a slight plus of going in it wiht only a brief idea of what it was going to be about. Anything that sees anyone honouring a grandparent is going to get to me in all honesty, but this had an added aspect of the concentration camp in Poland.

When David and Benji join the tour group which is led by a British man James, it was clear that with the mix of people and reasons for wanting to be in Poland and look at the history of Jews within the area. They all have special ties to it with past family members and having gone through different events. The scene visiting the concentration camp really was powerul and as a viewer it felt as though we were also on the tour, really capturing the sadness and loss.

This is where the film really hits home when you have characters going through so many things and not being able to deal with emotions when it comes to Benji. Seeing David still idolise his cousin, even though they are total opposites is certainly an incredible part of the story. Highlighting that no matter what you have within your life, what you have been through you will always have a slight envy of what other people have that you don’t.

A real passion project for Jesse Eisenberg, who took on directing, writing, and starring roles, it’s a slight shame he hasn’t received much recognition for his brilliant performance, which showcases his incredible range and depth as an artist. His ability to navigate the complex emotions of his character adds a layer of authenticity that captivates the audience throughout the film. Kieran Culkin, on the other hand, has been receiving praise, and rightly so, given his exceptional work from start to finish; his nuanced portrayal leaves a lasting impact and complements Eisenberg’s performance beautifully, creating a dynamic synergy that elevates the overall quality of the project. Together, they bring to life a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with viewers, highlighting the importance of creative expression.