Jesse Eisenberg has once again proven his prowess as both an actor and filmmaker with the recent surge in popularity of his film A Real Pain. Released in late 2024, the poignant comedy-drama found renewed life on streaming platforms throughout April 2025, topping charts across Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV+. Co-starring Emmy-winner Kieran Culkin, the film follows two estranged cousins who reconnect during a Holocaust heritage tour in Poland following the death of their beloved grandmother.
Critics praised A Real Pain for its balance of dark humor and emotional depth, with many highlighting Eisenberg’s script as one of the most authentic and moving of the past year. The film originally premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it took home the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award. Audiences appreciated how the movie tackled themes of grief, family estrangement, and cultural identity without veering into melodrama.
Its April 2025 streaming success underscores the film’s enduring impact. According to streaming analytics firm ReelMetrics, A Real Pain was the second-most watched independent film globally during the first two weeks of April. Viewership numbers surged after the film was included in Netflix’s “Critics’ Picks” carousel, leading to a wave of renewed buzz on social media platforms.
In addition to strong audience reception, the film’s performances have drawn early awards buzz. Industry insiders suggest Culkin could be a strong contender for Best Supporting Actor at the upcoming Oscars, while Eisenberg’s screenplay is also likely to be in contention. With awards season approaching, A Real Pain appears to be gaining even more momentum.
Eisenberg has already hinted at future directing projects, noting in interviews that he’s interested in continuing to tell deeply personal stories with a unique comedic lens. A Real Pain is available now on major streaming platforms and continues to find new fans across the globe.