Jesse Eisenberg on ‘A Real Pain,’ Acting vs. Writing and Mark Zuckerberg 2.0

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Jesse Eisenberg is the guest on the latest episode of The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast. The 41-year-old actor, writer and director is best known for his portrayal of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg in David Fincher’s 2010 masterpiece The Social Network. Fourteen years after receiving an best actor Oscar nomination for that performance, the former child actor is an Oscar nominee again, this time for the original screenplay that he wrote for a 2024 film that he also directed and stars in, A Real Pain.

The semi-autobiographical drama is about two very different cousins — one “successful” but anxious, played by him, the other struggling but charming, played by Kieran Culkin — who travel together to Poland to pay tribute to their beloved late grandmother. It premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where Eisenberg was recognized with the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award, and at which its U.S. distribution rights were acquired for $10 million by Searchlight, which released it on Nov. 1, 2024. It has since garnered rave reviews — it’s at 96% on Rotten Tomatoes — and has grossed $16.4 million worldwide.

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Over the course of a conversation at the Los Angeles offices of The Hollywood Reporter, Eisenberg reflected on how a shy and socially-awkward kid wound up on the stage and the screen in the first place, in films such as 2002’s Roger Dodger, 2005’s The Squid and the Whale and 2009’s Adventureland; what led him to begin writing, even as his acting career took off thanks to the commercial success of 2009’s Zombieland and 2010’s The Social Network, and why he shifted from penning scripts in the mold of Adam Sandler comedies to more personal material; how A Real Pain — the second feature that he wrote and directed, after 2022’s When You Finish Saving the World — essentially brings together ideas he first explored in other pieces that he wrote years ago; plus much more.

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In a recent interview, Jesse Eisenberg opened up about the challenges of playing complex characters, the difference between acting and writing, and his thoughts on the evolution of Mark Zuckerberg in the upcoming film “The Social Network 2.0.”

Eisenberg, known for his intense and nuanced performances, described the process of getting into character as “a real pain.” He explained that he often immerses himself in the mindset of his characters, which can be emotionally draining. However, he also expressed a deep love for the craft of acting and the opportunity to inhabit different personas on screen.

When asked about his experience as a writer, Eisenberg emphasized the distinct challenges that come with writing compared to acting. He noted that while both require creativity and storytelling skills, writing often involves more solitary work and a different kind of discipline. Despite these differences, Eisenberg revealed that he enjoys both pursuits and finds fulfillment in expressing himself through multiple artistic mediums.

One of Eisenberg’s most famous roles was portraying Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg in the original “The Social Network” film. Now, with a sequel in the works, Eisenberg shared his excitement for revisiting the character and exploring how Zuckerberg has evolved over the years. He hinted at a more mature and introspective portrayal of the tech mogul, suggesting that audiences can expect to see a new side of Zuckerberg in the upcoming film.

Overall, Eisenberg’s reflections on acting, writing, and his upcoming projects offer insight into his passion for storytelling and his dedication to his craft. Fans can look forward to seeing him tackle new challenges and bring fresh perspectives to the characters he embodies on screen.

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