Jesse Eisenberg’s ‘A Real Pain’ Nominated for Multiple Oscars

LOS ANGELES, CA — The film “A Real Pain,” starring Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin, has captured significant attention this awards season after earning multiple nominations including two Oscars for Best Supporting Actor and Best Original Screenplay. The film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in early 2024 and was released in theaters on Nov. 1, follows the journey of two Jewish cousins, David and Benji Kaplan, who embark on a poignant trip to Poland to honor their late grandmother.

Eisenberg, who wrote and directed the film, portrays the uptight David Kaplan, while Culkin plays his more carefree cousin, Benji Kaplan. Their contrasting personalities serve to drive the narrative as they confront personal tensions against the backdrop of their family’s history with the Holocaust. Culkin’s performance has already earned him accolades at the BAFTAs, SAG Awards, and Golden Globes, making him a strong contender for the Oscar.

In a recent interview, Eisenberg discussed the inspiration behind the film. He explained that the story evolved from an initial idea about two friends traveling to Mongolia that took a turn after he stumbled upon an advertisement for Auschwitz tours. “I didn’t think those four words would change my life, but they did,” he said. Eisenberg went on to explore themes of privilege, guilt, and the complexity of Jewish identity throughout the narrative.

The film is also recognized for its screenplay, with Eisenberg receiving accolades from multiple critics’ associations, including the BAFTA and Independent Spirit Awards. As anticipation builds for the Oscars scheduled for this Sunday, viewers still have the chance to catch “A Real Pain” before the awards ceremony. The film is available for streaming on Hulu, where new subscribers can take advantage of a 30-day free trial.

In addition to Eisenberg and Culkin, the film’s ensemble cast includes Will Sharpe, Jennifer Grey, Kurt Egyiawan, Liza Sadovy, Daniel Oreskes, and Ellora Torchia. The production, which was co-produced by Eisenberg and fellow actors including Emma Stone, adds to the film’s compelling narrative about family and historical trauma.

According to publicly available information, “A Real Pain” has received critical acclaim for its unique storytelling and engaging performances, affirming Eisenberg’s innovative approach to filmmaking. As the Academy Awards approach, both Eisenberg and Culkin are expected to continue their winning streak among the nominees.