A Real Pain
Director: Jesse Eisenberg
Actors: Kieran Culkin, Jesse Eisenberg, Olha Bosova
PlotTwo estranged cousins, David and Ezra, reunite after the death of their grandmother. Realizing they both lack a true sense of identity, they impulsively decide to travel to Poland, the land of their ancestors, in hopes of understanding their roots. Arriving with the expectation that this trip will be a quick fix for their existential woes, they soon find themselves bewildered by cultural barriers and the complex tapestry of contemporary Eastern Europe. They face comical misadventures involving language mishaps, strange local customs, and unexpected connections. The pair's floundering attempts to locate their family's old village become a fulcrum for confronting their own internal struggles and wounds. As they edge closer to discovery, deep-seated family tensions and personal dissatisfaction bubble to the surface.
During their journey, David and Ezra meet an enigmatic guide, Marta, who claims to know the legends and tales of the Jewish communities once thriving in their ancestors' region. Encouraged by her stories, they dig deeper into their family's past, awakening shocking revelations that unsettle their views on heritage and each other. The tension mounts as David grapples with feelings of inadequacy and Ezra struggles with a cynical view of their quest. Alongside Marta, they navigate a blend of comedy and drama through villages and historic sites marked by time and tragedy. While initially driven by an urge for self-discovery and legacy revival, the cousins are ultimately faced with choices that challenge what it means to truly belong and love amidst historical scars and personal pains.
Writers: Jesse Eisenberg
Release Date: 01 Nov 2024
Runtime: 90 min
Rating: R
Country: United States, Poland
Language: English, Polish
Home Video Reviews
A Real Pain is a personal, intelligent film with strong emotional depth and standout performances, particularly from Kieran Culkin; technically solid.
Read our review of A Real Pain Blu-ray to find out more