Ben Madilynn
A Real Pain effortlessly balances humor and heartfelt tenderness.
It’s thoroughly entertaining, with full of laugh-out-loud moments, while being a sympathetic and poignant exploration of generational trauma.
The story centers on two cousins, Benji and David, who embark on a tour of Poland to discover where their late grandmother was raised during the Second World War. Their dynamic is both hilarious and heartbreaking, as their stark differences highlight their underlying desire for each other’s lives.
KIERAN CULKIN AND JESSE EINBERG’S STELLAR ACTING
Benji, a jobless young man who lives in his mother’s basement, is searching for meaning and stability in his chaotic life. Played by Kieran Culkin, Benji is equal parts aggravating and endearing.
Kieran steals the spotlight with his sharp comedic timing and deeply vulnerable moments. His portrayal of Benji feels raw and authentic, bringing humor and humanity to a character who often uses jokes to mask his pain.
David, portrayed by Jesse Eisenberg, is more reserved, weighed down by family responsibilities and an unfulfilled yearning for something greater.
Jesse’s performance, though understated, complements Kieran’s manic energy with his portrayal of David’s quiet frustration and inner conflict.
Photo/s: Screengrab from A Real Pain Teaser
Praise must also be given to Jesse, who took on writing on directing duties on top of his usual acting work. A Real Pain is his second movie as a writer and director, after 2022’s Sundance darling When You Finish Saving the World.
A REAL PAIN SHOWCASES BEAUTY AND HISTORY OF POLAND
Poland serves as a striking backdrop for the Benji and David’s journey. The cinematography captures both its vibrant present and its haunting history.
Night scenes, in particular, are beautifully lit, creating an atmosphere of reflection and intimacy. The death camp sequence is unforgettable—silent, haunting, and restrained in a way that makes it all the more impactful.
The camerawork is equally noteworthy. It remains steady and unobtrusive for much of the film, letting the slice-of-life story unfold naturally. However, during pivotal emotional moments, the camera becomes more dynamic, subtly reflecting the characters’ inner turmoil.
While the film’s central focus on Benji and David is its greatest strength, it leaves little room for the supporting cast to develop fully. The other members of the tour, for instance, feel more like narrative props than fully realized individuals.
A REAL PAIN provides emotional depth
Despite this minor flaw, A Real Pain excels in its ability to balance comedy and emotional depth. The humor is sharp and abundant, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that never feel out of place.
At the same time, the film’s exploration of identity, family, and the lingering shadows of the past is handled with care and subtlety.
Photo/s: Screengrab from A Real Pain Teaser
Jesse Eisenberg has proven himself a filmmaker to watch, with a unique voice and vision. Kieran Culkin delivers one of his best performances to date, solidifying his place as one of the most compelling actors of his generation.
With its poignant themes, sharp humor, and stellar performances, A Real Pain is a must-watch—both entertaining and deeply moving.
A Real Pain will be shown exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas starting on January 29.
The PEP REVIEW section carries the views of individual reviewers, and does not necessarily reflect the views of the PEP editorial team.
