Not Winning Best Original Screenplay Is “A Real Pain”
I truly can’t wrap my head around how Jesse Eisenberg’s brilliant “A Real Pain” didn’t snag the Best Original Screenplay award. I mean, I watched Anora too, and honestly, it doesn’t hold a candle to this gem. This was my first film Directed by Eisenberg and honestly the chemistry he shares with Kieran Culkin is nothing short of magic. They bounce off each other perfectly, crafting a narrative that’s both captivating and deeply significant. Their performances are on point, and Jesse clearly has a mastery of the camera and set that’s impressive. I can’t wait to see what more he has in store for us!
Eisenberg delivers a deeply personal story that resonates with so many of us, especially in today’s world. The characters feel like real people we might encounter in our lives. I’ve never related to two main characters as much as I did here. Benji takes me back to my pre-30s self, while David reflects who I’ve become since then. Now that I identify more with David, I found myself feeling a sense of embarrassment for Benji, though those feelings and ideas Benji expressed still linger within me.
This film delves into the themes of loss, reconnection, and grief, set against the profound backdrop of the Holocaust. While it may seem like a historical context, at its core, it’s about Benji’s transformative journey from one phase of his life to another. The opening and final shots of Benji showcase two completely different individuals, with this narrative encapsulating the heart of that change.
I’m definitely adding this masterpiece to my collection. It’s an absolute must-see!
‘A Real Pain’ is currently available on select streaming and VOD.
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