'A Real Pain' combines comedy with weighty issues

When considered merely escapist amusement, some comedies do not receive the credit they deserve for integrating serious commentary into an enjoyable film. For many fine comedies resonate with weighty subtexts, as Jesse Eisenberg proves in "A Real Pain." Director, screenwriter and star, Eisenberg has a keen eye for effective compositions and a knack for witty banter.

That comes courtesy of his animated interaction with cousin Benji, a terrific Kieran Culkin. His superb timing is no surprise to those familiar with his Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy Award winning performance as Roman Roy in HBO's series "Succession," among many other notable roles. As Benji, he is, more or less, the pain of "A Real Pain," with Eisenberg as cousin David, the more sensible, albeit overanxious, of the two. The pair agree travel to Poland with a Holocaust tour group on a personal mission: to find their recently deceased grandmother’s original home.

Amidst assorted clashes of their ying/yang personalities, David and Benji interact with members of their tour group, all of whom add complex perspectives and personalities. Most importantly, their stops include a reverential visit to a Polish cemetery and the Majdanek concentration camp, near Lublin, as well as their grandmother's village. Their reevaluation of their heritage adds significant weight to this emphatic reminder of the importance of history and remembrance, honoring the experiences of generations. Moreover, this poignant story is personal for Eisenberg who became interested in his own Polish heritage in his teens.

Shooting in Poland, including at the Majdanek concentration camp, cinematographer Michał Dymek brings various locations to life: some dark contrasting with some light, several open and others with restricted space. The pace feels just right as David and Benji's relationship evolves, both clearly impacted by their realization of the legacy they share. Their trip changes them, as the best travel experiences do. For David and Benji, their immersion in their Jewish heritage is poignant, impacting them and us the audience in important, lasting ways.