"A Real Pain": Exploring Heritage, Humor, and Heartache

Sometimes the best movie-going experiences come from taking a chance. That’s exactly how my kids and I ended up watching Jesse Eisenberg’s A Real Pain. Instead of picking the movie first, we started by choosing the Hi Pointe Theatre, a local gem with a classic charm that reminds me of simpler times. Known for its mix of older films and thoughtfully selected new releases, it’s always a pleasure to visit. Once we settled on the Hi Pointe, we scanned the listings and landed on A Real Pain. A quick read of the synopsis sparked our interest, and the movie’s connection to Polish heritage gave it even more appeal for us. As someone who is 1/4 Polish (making my kids at least 1/8), I was curious to see how the film would handle themes tied to family roots. 

The story follows cousins David (Jesse Eisenberg) and Benji (Kieran Culkin) as they travel to Poland to honor their grandmother. What starts as a somewhat comical road trip evolves into a poignant exploration of family, identity, and the unresolved tensions that shape who we are. I found myself relating deeply to David, particularly his frustration with Benji. On the surface, Benji comes across as the “cool guy,” exuding charm and charisma. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that beneath his empathetic façade lie selfish motives and trauma-induced instability. This dynamic felt strikingly familiar, highlighting the challenges of navigating relationships with people who can be both magnetic and overwhelming. 

Kieran Culkin delivers a standout performance, capturing the raw vulnerability of Benji’s character. Watching his interactions with Eisenberg’s David was a rollercoaster—hilarious in one moment and emotionally intense the next. Their dynamic reminded me of the complexity of family relationships, where love and exasperation often go hand in hand. 

One of the film’s strengths is its ability to weave humor and heartfelt moments seamlessly. It had us laughing one minute and reflecting on family bonds the next. The Polish backdrop added another layer of depth for me. Seeing the characters confront their heritage and shared history made me think about my own roots and the connections that tie us to the past. 

The intimate, nostalgic setting of the Hi Pointe Theatre made the experience even more special. Watching a film with this kind of emotional weight in a theater steeped in history enhanced its impact. It reminded me of the simple joy of sitting down with my kids and getting lost in a story together. 

Final Thoughts: 

A Real Pain is a film that resonates on multiple levels. From its humor to its heartfelt exploration of family and heritage, it offers something meaningful for everyone. For those who enjoy stories that dig into the complexities of relationships while still finding moments of levity, this movie is a 

must-watch. And if you’re lucky enough to catch it at a theater like the Hi Pointe, you’ll find the experience even more memorable.

Kirk Aug

Kirk is a writer, beekeeper and a fellow traveller on spaceship Earth. Follow Kirk on instagram @kirkaug