Jesse Eisenberg's latest directorial effort, A Real Pain, is a deeply reflective and darkly comedic exploration of family, trauma, and the often fraught journey of self-discovery. While Eisenberg's script and direction successfully bring this story of familial bonds to life, it is Kieran Culkin's mesmerizing performance as Benji that truly elevates the film. Culkin embodies a complex mix of humor, pathos, and unpredictability, breathing life into the character in ways that make the audience feel the raw humanity behind every line.

The film follows two cousins, David (played by Eisenberg himself) and Benji (Kieran Culkin), as they travel to Poland to visit the birthplace of their grandmother. The trip is ostensibly an attempt to honor their family heritage, but it quickly turns into an emotionally charged, comedic, and painful journey of reckoning for both men. Culkin's portrayal of Benji—a charming yet deeply wounded soul—becomes the heart of the film, contrasting perfectly with Eisenberg's portrayal of the tightly-wound and often uptight David. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and Culkin's performance provides a perfect foil to Eisenberg's more controlled, introspective character.

From the moment Benji appears on screen, Culkin's charisma is impossible to ignore. He is a character who laughs too loudly, drinks too much, and hides his vulnerability behind layers of humor and bravado. What makes Culkin's performance so compelling is his ability to expose the cracks beneath Benji's carefree exterior. He gives the character a depth that transcends mere comic relief—he embodies the kind of person who keeps running from his pain, only to realize that it is inescapable. Culkin expertly balances moments of levity with heart-wrenching displays of insecurity and fear, crafting a portrayal that is profoundly human.

In one particularly striking scene, Benji reflects on his complicated relationship with David. As the two cousins stand in a small Polish village, surrounded by the history of their family, Benji reveals the emotional weight he has been carrying. Culkin plays this scene with both vulnerability and restraint, showing how Benji's attempts to mask his pain are crumbling in the face of the harsh reality of their family history. The depth of emotion in his eyes, the slight quiver in his voice—these are the moments when Culkin truly shines, reminding audiences of his incredible range as an actor.

Culkin also brings an electric spontaneity to the role, making Benji unpredictable and deeply endearing. He effortlessly captures the essence of someone who has spent his life deflecting serious moments with humor, only to find himself unable to keep up the facade any longer. As David and Benji visit the very home from which their ancestors were taken during the Holocaust, Culkin's portrayal of Benji's discomfort, anger, and reluctant vulnerability is both heart-wrenching and authentic. The complexity of his emotions—a mix of reverence for the past, resentment for being forced to confront it, and a longing for connection—is laid bare in his expressions and mannerisms.

One of the greatest strengths of A Real Pain is its willingness to dive into uncomfortable emotional territory, and Culkin leads the charge fearlessly. His performance is raw and unpolished, making Benji's journey feel authentic and relatable. Whether he is cracking an inappropriate joke at the worst possible moment or desperately trying to connect with his cousin despite their differences, Culkin infuses every scene with an emotional honesty that is captivating to watch. His ability to oscillate between humor and heartbreak gives A Real Pain its emotional core and makes the audience care deeply about Benji's journey.

While Eisenberg's writing and direction provide the framework for an engaging and thought-provoking film, it is Kieran Culkin's incredible performance that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. He brings a raw energy to Benji that elevates the entire narrative, ensuring that the film's exploration of family, history, and identity resonates on a deep emotional level. Culkin's portrayal of Benji is not only the highlight of A Real Pain but also a testament to his talent as an actor capable of blending comedy and tragedy with seemingly effortless skill.

A Real Pain is ultimately a film about the ways in which we cope with our past—sometimes through humor, sometimes through anger, and sometimes by finally allowing ourselves to be vulnerable. Through Kieran Culkin's incredible performance, Benji becomes a character that embodies all of these coping mechanisms, making him one of the most memorable and compelling parts of the film. Culkin's work here is nothing short of extraordinary, and his portrayal is sure to leave audiences moved and reflective, long after they leave the theater.

TCG Score: ★★★★½ [4.5/5]

Watch The Trailer for A Real Pain below: