‘A Real Pain’ Review: Jesse Eisenberg’s Exploration of Human Pain

Jesse Eisenberg, known for his distinctive energy and nervous charm in movies, continues to carve his mark in the indie film scene with his latest project, ‘A Real Pain.’ Following his directorial debut in ‘When You Finish Saving the World,’ Eisenberg’s second feature film delves deeper into themes of family, historical trauma, and human suffering.

In ‘A Real Pain,’ Eisenberg steps into the shoes of David Kaplan, a New Yorker grappling with medicated OCD and the weight of his family’s history. Alongside his cousin Benji, portrayed by Kieran Culkin, David embarks on a journey to Poland, tracing the footsteps of their grandmother, a Holocaust survivor.

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The film serves as a philosophical exploration of human pain and the legacy of suffering and survival. Through Eisenberg’s character, David and Culkin’s portrayal of the impulsive Benji, the audience witnesses a collision of performance styles. Both actors encapsulate characters struggling with their demons, navigating the complexities of family dynamics and personal identity.

Set against the backdrop of Poland, including haunting locations like the Majdanek concentration camp, ‘A Real Pain’ captures the essence of the country with an authentic eye. Eisenberg and cinematographer Michal Dymek skillfully portray Warsaw, Lublin and the Polish countryside, highlighting both the beauty and the scars of the landscape.

As the narrative unfolds, the film oscillates between moments of insight, humour and introspection. While Culkin’s portrayal of Benji adds a layer of intensity and unpredictability, the supporting cast, including Jennifer Grey and Kurt Egyiawan, brings depth to their characters, each with their connection to trauma and resilience.

Despite its occasional pretentiousness and dry humour, ‘A Real Pain’ remains true to Eisenberg’s signature style – a blend of wit, discomfort and emotional resonance. Through its exploration of human suffering and the quest for authenticity, the film invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences of pain and resilience.