Rated R, 98 minutes
Directed by Jesse Eisenberg, 2024, United States
A Real Pain (2024), directed by Jesse Eisenberg, stars Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin as estranged Jewish American cousins David and Benji. The story follows their journey to Poland to honor their late grandmother’s memory and reconnect with their heritage. David, a pragmatic father, and Benji, a free-spirited drifter, clash in humorous and poignant ways as they navigate personal differences and shared history. A Real Pain explores themes of identity, heritage, and family dynamics. Culkin’s raw performance and Eisenberg’s direction have been widely acclaimed, making this a standout film of 2024.