Jesse Eisenberg, widely recognized for his role in Zombieland, has taken on a deeply personal project with his new film A Real Pain, a story about two cousins embarking on a Holocaust tour. But don’t expect the movie to be a heavy, moralistic history lesson. Instead, Eisenberg, who not only wrote, directed, and stars in the film but also teamed up with Succession’s Kieran Culkin, ensures the story remains accessible, emotional, and, surprisingly, filled with moments of humor.
It’s not every day that an actor takes on such a multifaceted role in filmmaking, but for Eisenberg, this seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore a significant historical theme while making it relatable for a wider audience. Talking about his intentions behind the film, Eisenberg shared that his goal wasn’t to deliver a sanctimonious narrative, despite the weighty topic of the Holocaust. Instead, he wanted it to be something audiences could connect with on multiple levels, without feeling like they were attending a somber history class.
A Film That’s Both Heartfelt and Hilarious
“A Real Pain isn’t your typical historical drama,” Eisenberg shared at the 68th BFI London Film Festival, where the film premiered. The 41-year-old explained how he wanted to tackle the Holocaust from a different angle—one that wasn’t entirely focused on the tragedies but also explored the dynamic between two cousins who embark on this tour. “I like to write about bigger themes but present them in a way that doesn’t feel academic,” he said, highlighting his desire to make a movie that felt real, human, and, most importantly, accessible.
For Eisenberg, it was essential that the film didn’t feel overly respectful in a stilted way. "I wanted it to be a relatable, accessible movie that can be fun and sad and all of the things that would happen when you go on a tour to a fraught place with your childhood best friend,” he explained. After all, what’s a trip with your best friend if it doesn’t include moments of awkwardness, humor, and sometimes even inappropriate laughter?
And that’s precisely what Eisenberg captures in the film. One of the movie’s lighter moments comes when Culkin’s character, Benji, takes a more irreverent approach to their tour of Poland. In a scene that perfectly balances comedy with the film’s otherwise serious tone, Benji decides that instead of paying solemn respect to massive 25-foot statues of Polish soldiers, the tour group should gather around them for photos. The idea of tourists trying to capture the perfect Instagram-worthy moment at a Holocaust site might seem jarring, but it’s also a reflection of the real-world behavior that Eisenberg wanted to depict.
Eisenberg recounted how the scene came together. “I had written this funny scene and was showing it to my sister that night, and my sister said there’s only one actor that could play this part of Benji—it’s Kieran Culkin,” he shared. That suggestion ended up being spot-on, as Culkin brought the perfect blend of irreverence and heart to the role, making Benji one of the most memorable characters in the film. “God, did I get lucky? And God, wasn’t she exactly right?” Eisenberg added with a laugh.
Beyond the Humor: The Film’s Emotional Core
While the film does have its share of humorous moments, A Real Pain is far from being a comedy. Eisenberg’s intention was to show how personal connections and the experience of confronting the past can evoke a mix of emotions—something he believes is true for anyone visiting historical sites, especially ones as emotionally charged as Holocaust memorials.
At its heart, the film is about relationships, particularly the bond between cousins David (played by Eisenberg) and Benji. Their relationship is complicated, filled with moments of tension, vulnerability, and humor. But that’s what makes it so relatable. Audiences aren’t just watching a historical tour unfold; they’re seeing how these two characters navigate their own personal issues while confronting one of the darkest moments in human history.
“There’s a balance of lightness and heaviness in the film,” Eisenberg said. The goal was to create something that didn’t feel preachy or weighed down by the subject matter. Instead, it’s a story about how two individuals deal with their own pain, both in the context of their relationship and in the broader historical sense. It’s this emotional depth that Eisenberg hopes will resonate with viewers, giving them a different perspective on the Holocaust that they may not have seen before.
Taking Control of His Creative Destiny
Eisenberg’s decision to direct, write, and star in A Real Pain marks a significant step in his career. While he’s best known for his acting roles, particularly in films like The Social Network and Zombieland, this project allowed him to take full creative control. And it’s clear that this is just the beginning for him as a filmmaker.
In fact, Eisenberg has already lined up his next project, with plans to start filming in March. “I would like to make one film a year,” he revealed, signaling that he’s ready to take on more directorial roles in the future. It’s an exciting prospect for fans of his work, as Eisenberg’s unique voice as a filmmaker is only just beginning to emerge. His ability to tackle heavy themes with a blend of humor, emotion, and authenticity sets him apart, and it will be interesting to see what he does next.
Looking Ahead
With A Real Pain, Eisenberg has proven that he’s not afraid to take risks, both as an actor and as a filmmaker. The film is a bold and unique take on a historical subject, infused with humor and heart, while still respecting the gravity of the Holocaust. It’s a delicate balancing act, but one that Eisenberg seems to have pulled off with remarkable skill.
As for what’s next, audiences can expect to see more from Eisenberg in the director’s chair in the coming years. With his desire to make one film a year, it’s clear that this won’t be the last time we see him behind the camera. And if A Real Pain is any indication, his future projects are bound to be as thought-provoking and entertaining as this one.
In a world where historical dramas can often feel heavy and inaccessible, Eisenberg’s film offers a refreshing perspective. It’s a movie that isn’t afraid to mix humor with heartache, making it a story that’s not only engaging but deeply human. Whether you're a fan of Eisenberg’s past work or new to his creative endeavors, A Real Pain is a film that promises to leave a lasting impression.
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