Jesse eisenberg takes the reins as both writer and director in his poignant film "A Real Pain", a story that explores a fractured family history through the lens of two cousins’ journey.
The movie reunites Eisenberg with Kieran Culkin, marking Culkin’s first onscreen appearance since his acclaimed role in the hit series "Succession". They portray cousins David and Benji, embarking on a trip to Poland to honor their grandmother’s memory and grapple with the tendrils of their family’s past. Their ultimate destination is the house their grandmother left behind after the Nazi occupation and the tragic fate that befell many Jewish families. Interestingly,the film features an actual house belonging to Eisenberg’s family – his grate aunt’s former residence.
"A Real Pain" garnered significant attention at the Sundance Film Festival, with Searchlight Pictures securing distribution rights for a significant $10 million. The supporting cast is equally impressive,consisting of Hollywood icons Jennifer Gray (Dirty Dancing) and Will Sharpe (The White Lotus),alongside Kurt Egyiawan (Beasts of No Nation),Liza Sadovy (A Small Light),and Daniel Oreskes (Only Murders in the Building). the film boasts a powerhouse team of producers, including Ali Herting, Dave McCary, Ewa Puszczynska, Jennifer Semler, Eisenberg, and Emma Stone, ensuring a compelling cinematic experience. "A Real Pain" hit theaters on November 1st.
While Eisenberg didn’t initially envision himself starring in the film, he revealed in an interview with Deadline’s Behind the Lens series that the reality of filmmaking frequently enough necessitates actors being attached to projects to attract producers.
His previous directorial effort, "When You Finish Saving the World", a dramedy starring Julianne Moore and Finn Wolfhard, premiered at sundance in January 2023 before being released by A24.
how does Jesse Eisenberg‘s personal history influence the storyline of “A real Pain”?
Interview with Jesse Eisenberg on “A Real pain”
Time.news Editor: Today,we are thrilled to interview Jesse Eisenberg,the talented writer adn director of the poignant film “A Real Pain.” The film, which recently garnered attention at the sundance Film Festival, dives deep into family history through the journey of two cousins. Jesse, thank you for joining us.
Jesse Eisenberg: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the film.
Time.news Editor: “A Real Pain” features a compelling storyline centered around cousins David and Benji, portrayed by yourself and Kieran Culkin.Can you tell us a bit about what inspired this narrative?
Jesse Eisenberg: The inspiration came from my family’s history and, in particular, my great aunt’s house in Poland, which we used as one of the film’s pivotal settings. I wanted to explore the complexity of family legacies, especially in the context of the Holocaust and the painful truths many families confront. It felt important to honor our history while also telling a personal story.
Time.news Editor: The film marks Kieran Culkin’s first onscreen appearance since his critically acclaimed role in “Succession.” What was it like to collaborate with him on this project?
Jesse Eisenberg: Collaborating with Kieran was fantastic. His talent is undeniable, and he brings a unique depth to the character of Benji. We both understood the weight of the story we were telling, and that shared connection definitely enriched our performances.Plus, I think our chemistry as cousins really shines through on screen.
Time.news Editor: “A Real pain” has already secured significant distribution rights from Searchlight pictures for $10 million. How critically important do you think such backing is for the film’s impact and reach?
Jesse Eisenberg: Securing distribution rights is crucial for independent films like ours. It allows our narrative to reach a broader audience, which is essential for stories that explore sensitive and significant themes. With Searchlight’s support, we have the prospect to engage viewers who might not otherwise have seen it.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned in a recent interview that you didn’t initially plan to star in the film. Can you explain how the realities of filmmaking led to your involvement as both a writer, director, and actor?
Jesse Eisenberg: Absolutely. The reality is that many projects need a recognizable face attached to them to draw in producers and secure funding. While I didn’t set out to act in this film, it became clear that my involvement could help bring the project to life. Plus, as a writer and director, I felt a deep connection to the character, which made me willing to step in.
Time.news Editor: Your previous directorial effort, “When You Finish Saving the World,” premiered at Sundance as well. How does it feel to return to sundance with “A Real Pain”?
Jesse Eisenberg: It’s exhilarating! Sundance is an incredible platform for independent filmmakers. Coming back with a story that is so personal and layered feels even more special.Each film represents a diffrent chapter in my creative journey, and returning to Sundance allows me to reflect on that growth.
Time.news Editor: With a talented supporting cast, including Jennifer Gray and Will Sharpe, how did you go about assembling such an extraordinary group?
Jesse Eisenberg: Casting the right people is essential for bringing a story to life authentically. I aimed to create a diverse group of actors who could give voice to the characters and enhance the emotional depth of the film.I’m finally seeing the fruition of that effort with such an esteemed cast.
Time.news Editor: “A Real Pain” was released in theaters on November 1st. what do you hope audiences take away from this film?
Jesse Eisenberg: My hope is that audiences engage with their own family history and understand the importance of acknowledging the past, even when it is indeed painful. I want them to feel connected to the characters’ journey and reflect on the broader themes of memory and resilience.
Time.news Editor: Thank you,Jesse,for sharing your insights. “A real Pain” promises to be a meaningful journey into family dynamics and history, and we wish you all the best with the film.
Jesse Eisenberg: Thank you so much! I appreciate the opportunity to discuss it.