A Real Pain is the funniest movie of the year, seamlessly blending comedy and heartfelt moments into a remarkable cinematic experience. Written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg, the film follows cousins Benji (Karen Culkin) and David (Jesse Eisenberg) as they embark on a journey through Poland to honor their grandmother, exploring their Jewish roots and understand their family’s connection to the Holocaust.

The screenplay had me laughing from beginning to end, largely thanks to Culkin’s hilarious portrayal of Benji, whose unfiltered, wildly inappropriate comments are both shocking and outlandishly funny. One of the standout moments comes when Benji notices Marcia walking by herself and, with no filter, approaches her to ask bluntly, "Why are you all alone? Are you a f***ing loser or something?" The way Culkin delivers these lines, paired with the reactions from Eisenberg’s more reserved David, creates a brilliant dynamic that elevates the comedy.

Another memorable scene involves Benji’s passionate opposition to riding first class on a train. He argues that such luxury is inappropriate for their journey to connect with their roots, and while his reasoning is a bit over-the-top, it’s endearing to see how much he cares. Similarly, at a graveside visit, Benji hilariously tells the tour guide to "shut up" so he can soak in the moment without interruption—an absurdly odd outburst that showcases his blunt harsh sincerity.

While the comedy shines, the film’s heartfelt moments pack just as much of a punch. David and Benji’s contrasting personalities—David as a grounded, responsible family man and Benji as a carefree, unfiltered spirit—allow for a beautiful exploration of their bond. Eisenberg and Culkin’s chemistry makes their relationship feel authentic, balancing moments of irratation with genuine affection.

Beyond the characters, the cinematography is surprisingly stunning for a simplistic film not in the Sci-Fi or Super Hero genre. The film captures Poland’s beauty with gorgeous wide shots that contrast with the weighty historical context. Complemented by a piano-heavy classical score, the transitions between scenes are emotionally resonant.

A Real Pain is one of my favorite films of the year, perfectly balancing laugh-out-loud humor with meaningful, heartfelt storytelling. With standout performances, an upbeat pace, and a beautiful exploration of history and family, this is a must-see.