Succession Star Kieran Culkin and Jesse Eisenberg Reunite for A Real Pain
Actors Kieran Culkin and Jesse Eisenberg reunited at the London Film Festival to launch their latest film, A Real Pain, a comedic spin on family and grief. Culkin is well-known for playing Roman Roy in the Emmy-winning Succession, while Eisenberg rose to fame playing Mark Zuckerberg in 2010’s The Social Network. Their new film, written and directed by Eisenberg, has received widespread praise at film festivals. It could be an unexpected contender during awards season.
The Plot of A Real Pain
The film follows two cousins, David and Benji, played by Eisenberg and Culkin, respectively, as they travel to Poland after their grandmother’s death. The grandmother, a Jewish Holocaust survivor, left money specifically for the trip. The cousins use it to explore her life. They travel across Poland with a tour group, occasionally breaking away to learn more about their grandmother while dealing with grief in their own unique ways. David is family-oriented and intellectual, while Benji is carefree and rebellious.
The film also features British actor Will Sharpe as the tour guide and Dirty Dancing star Jennifer Grey as one of the tourists. Despite looking like a typical comedy from the trailer, A Real Pain has deeper emotional layers and resonates with audiences on multiple levels.
Strong Emotional Themes Underlying the Comedy
Despite being a tight 90 minutes, A Real Pain addresses significant themes. It draws viewers in with humor while gradually revealing deeper messages. The emotional journey of the characters and their exploration of their grandmother’s past makes the film impactful. The visit to the Majdanek concentration camp and the house their grandmother had to leave behind adds emotional weight to the story. The contrast between the beautiful Polish scenery and the painful history explored gives the film a unique depth.
The Critical Reception of A Real Pain
Positive Reviews Highlight Emotional Resonance
Critics have responded positively to the film. Tomris Laffly from Harper’s Bazaar called it “understated, funny, and gradually heart-swelling.” The Hollywood Reporter’s David Rooney described it as a “frequently laugh-out-loud funny odd couple road trip movie whose emotional wallop sneaks up and floors you.” Culkin’s performance received high praise from Deadline’s Damon Wise, who called it a “career-high performance” and highlighted that the role has the potential to make him a movie star.
Mixed Opinions from Awards Circles
While many have praised Culkin’s performance, there has been some debate in awards circles about his decision to campaign in the supporting actor category. Many believe he is the film’s lead, given the depth and significance of his role. Vanity Fair’s Richard Lawson had a more subdued response to the film, noting that it was “slighter than expected” and was sometimes overshadowed by Culkin’s antics. However, other critics, such as Ema Sasic of Next Best Picture, enjoyed the conventional yet heartfelt storytelling. Film Inquiry’s Kristy Strouse appreciated the film’s balance of comedy and poignant moments.
Kieran Culkin’s Impact and Succession’s Legacy
Culkin’s Post-Succession Success
Kieran Culkin’s involvement in A Real Pain has showcased his range as an actor. He has transitioned from his iconic role in Succession to a new, emotionally resonant character. The Succession series, centered on a media mogul and his children vying for control of his empire, has catapulted its stars to new heights. Jeremy Strong, another Succession alum, also has a film at the London Film Festival titled The Apprentice, focusing on Donald Trump’s early years as a real estate tycoon.
Success of Succession’s Cast Beyond the Series
Culkin’s former co-stars, Sarah Snook and J Smith Cameron, have also found success in London’s West End, demonstrating how the cast’s collective talent has continued to thrive beyond the series. The legacy of Succession remains strong, as its actors embrace new opportunities and explore diverse roles in film and theater.
Conclusion
A Real Pain is more than just a comedy. It digs deep into family history, grief, and the complexity of human relationships. Kieran Culkin’s portrayal of Benji has been praised for its emotional depth, making it a career-defining role. The film’s balance of humor and heartfelt moments makes it a standout addition to the film festival circuit. Audiences and critics alike recognize its value. As Culkin and his fellow Succession stars continue to explore new roles, their ability to captivate and move audiences remains undeniable.
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