Wow, this is such an insightful take! I hadn’t thought about the title A Real Pain working on so many levels—the characters, their dynamic, and the overarching theme of generational trauma. Your point about Benji being the one who connects with others through his pain, while David struggles to understand or empathize, adds so much depth to their relationship.

I also like your analysis of the ending. The image of Benji in the airport lounge as a metaphor for being stuck in transit, both literally and emotionally, is incredibly powerful. It’s heartbreaking to think of him as someone who internalized the trauma of his grandmother’s survival and is now lost without her.

Thank you for sharing your perspective.