Benji is laid-back and carefree, effortlessly smuggling a brick of marijuana into their hotel without a second thought. In contrast, David, a responsible digital advertising employee living in New York with his family, is tightly wound and dutiful, reflecting the pressures of adulthood. Once inseparable as children, the cousins have drifted apart, with Benji residing in Binghamton and seemingly living without a care or job.
Despite his easygoing demeanor, Benji's emotions run deep, creating a complex dynamic with those around him, particularly David. "A Real Pain" is a road-trip comedy that delves into the intricacies of family bonds and the lasting impact of historical events on personal identity. It captures the profound sadness that can linger in some individuals, an essence that Eisenberg artfully weaves into the film.
The story begins with the cousins' comedic misadventures as they navigate their way to the airport, where David's anxiety about Benji's punctuality becomes apparent. Benji, who enjoys mingling with strangers in airports, arrives early, highlighting his unpredictability. Once in Poland, they join a tour group led by an overly chatty guide (Will Sharpe) and accompanied by a diverse cast of characters, including a recently divorced woman (Jennifer Grey) and a survivor of the Rwandan genocide (Kurt Egyiawan). Their journey will take them from the picturesque town of Lublin to the solemn Majdanek Concentration Camp, where the weight of their grandmother's past becomes a pivotal moment for both cousins.
While the film is filled with humor—showcasing the delightful chemistry between Eisenberg and Culkin—the underlying melancholy gradually unfolds. Eisenberg's directorial finesse shines through as he balances comedy and deeper emotional currents, a testament to his growth as a filmmaker following his debut in "When You Finish Saving the World."
Culkin's performance is particularly noteworthy; he embodies Benji's exuberance and spontaneity while hinting at the sorrow that drives his character. His brash yet endearing nature often lands him in awkward situations, like when he proudly announces their cousinship to the tour group, eliciting David's embarrassment. Yet, Benji's vibrant spirit serves as a reminder to David of the joy he has lost in his pursuit of responsibility.
Ultimately, "A Real Pain" explores the complexities of emotional balance within relationships, suggesting that while some individuals feel too much, others may feel too little. The film invites viewers to consider how we can offer support to those carrying heavy burdens, underscoring that compassion is both a challenge and a necessity. In its essence, the movie radiates generosity, capturing the messy, beautiful nature of human connections.
