The Real Pain is the latest film by Jesse Eisenberg, in which the actor known from “The Social Network” not only plays the main role, but also makes his debut as a director and screenwriter. In this intimate production, he is accompanied by Kieran Culkin, known to the general public for his role as Roman Roy in the series “Succession”. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival and immediately aroused the interest of critics, and now it is being released in Polish cinemas. Is “True Pain” a successful directorial debut for Eisenberg? We invite you to read our review.
What is the movie True Pain about?
“True Pain” tells the story of two cousins, David (Jesse Eisenberg) and Ezra (Kieran Culkin), who embark on a sentimental journey to Polish in the footsteps of their grandmother. They want to visit the places where she grew up before World War II and face the difficult history of her family. This journey will turn out to be not only an opportunity for them to learn about the past, but also to confront their own emotions, fears and hidden traumas.
Real Pain – a psychological drama with elements of black humor
Eisenberg’s film is primarily a psychological drama that focuses on the relationship between the two main characters. David and Ezra are two extremely different personalities. David is a neurotic and introverted writer, struggling with a creative crisis and problems in his personal life. Ezra is his complete opposite – an impulsive, hedonistic actor who does not shy away from stimulants and fleeting romances. Their journey together becomes a catalyst for conflicts and misunderstandings, but also a chance to get to know each other better and understand each other.
Eisenberg deftly builds tension between the characters, gradually revealing their inner demons. The film does not shy away from difficult topics such as grief, loneliness, addiction and mental illness. At the same time, the director smuggles elements of black humor into the narrative, which relieve tension and give the film lightness.
Poland through the lens of Jesse Eisenberg
“Real Pain” is also an interesting look at Poland through the eyes of an American filmmaker. Eisenberg does not show our country in a stereotypical way, avoiding pictures from a history textbook or promotional tourist brochures. Instead, he focuses on authenticity and shows Poland as his characters see it – with its beauty, but also with its problems and contrasts.
The film features both picturesque landscapes (the Tatra Mountains, Krakow) and places associated with difficult history (the concentration camp in Oświęcim). Eisenberg does not avoid showing poverty, unemployment or xenophobia, but he does it sensitively and without shocking with sensationalism. His Poland is a country full of contradictions, where the past is still alive and affects the present.
Excellent performances by Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin
“Real Pain” is primarily an acting show of the two main actors. Jesse Eisenberg once again proves that he is one of the most interesting actors of his generation. In the role of David, he is convincing and moving, perfectly conveying the neurotic nature of his character. Kieran Culkin also comes off brilliantly as Ezra, creating a character full of life and energy, but also hiding a lot of pain and confusion.
The chemistry between the actors is palpable on screen, and their dialogues are both funny and poignant. Eisenberg and Culkin form an unforgettable duo that carries the entire film.
Is Real Pain worth watching?
“True Pain” is an ambitious and moving film that will surely be remembered by viewers. Eisenberg has proven that he is not only a talented actor, but also a mature director who can tell stories with depth and sensitivity. We recommend the film to all those who are looking for cinema that is intellectually and emotionally engaging.
Pros:
- Excellent performances by Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin
- Interesting scenario and multidimensional characters
- An original look at Poland
- A combination of psychological drama and dark humor
Cons:
- Some plots may seem insufficiently developed
- The film may be too intimate and slow to get going for some viewers
