In the heartwarming film ‘Rental Family,’ Brendan Fraser takes on a unique role that explores the depths of human connection through a gentle comedic lens.
‘Rental Family’ Review: Brendan Fraser in a Gentle Family Comedy
When I heard that Brendan Fraser’s first film after winning the Best Actor Oscar for The Whale was titled Rental Family, I initially thought he was returning to the funny yet gimmicky studio comedies of his earlier career. However, this film is anything but that.
A Unique Concept
This sweet and lyrical movie, premiering tonight at the Toronto Film Festival, is inspired by real life in Japan, where since the 1980s, over 300 companies have thrived by renting people out on an hourly basis for various companionship needs. This can range from needing someone to attend a wedding with you to hiring a boyfriend to introduce to your parents or simply having someone to share a space with after losing a loved one. Japanese writer-director Hikari researched the “rental family” phenomenon, particularly prevalent in Japan, where loneliness is becoming an increasing issue.
Phillip’s Journey
Fraser portrays Phillip Vandarbleog, a struggling actor who moved to Japan seven years ago after landing a role in a superhero toothpaste commercial. Since then, acting opportunities have been scarce. When he discovers a rental family agency that hires actors to help fill emotional voids in people’s lives, he decides to give it a try. His first experience is as a mourner at a fake funeral, where he learns the value of connection.
Phillip’s journey continues as he becomes a groom at a wedding where the bride fears revealing her true romantic partner to her family. As he settles into the agency run by Tada (Takehiro Hira), he faces friction with co-worker Aiko (Mari Yamamoto), who challenges his presence. Yet, they all have a job to do.
Real Connections
Phillip is later hired by a mother (Shino Shinozaki) to act as the father to her 11-year-old daughter, Mia, whose real father is absent. To secure Mia’s admission to a private school, they need to present a complete family unit. Initially skeptical, Mia eventually finds in Phillip the father figure she has longed for.
Another storyline involves Kikuo Hasegawa (Akira Emoto), a famous actor losing his memory. Phillip is hired to impersonate a journalist to provide companionship during this difficult time, leading to unexpected complications.
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A Heartfelt Experience
This gentle film represents a rare, humane comedy that resonates in a world where social media often replaces genuine human connection. The concept of “renting” a stranger may seem absurd, but Hikari’s film could inspire a new trend. Plus, it offers actors valuable work!
Fraser delivers a soulful and understated performance, portraying a man whose job becomes a life-affirming experience. Hira embodies the agency owner striving to keep his business afloat, while Yamamoto shines, especially in her interactions with Phillip. Gorman, in her film debut, is a standout, and Emoto continues to captivate audiences well into his 70s. This refreshing ensemble of Japanese actors brings a unique charm to a comedy that the entire family can enjoy. Arigata, Hikari.
Film Details
Title: Rental Family
Festival: Toronto Film Festival
Distributor: Searchlight Pictures
Release Date: November 21, 2025
Director: Hikari
Screenwriters: Hikari and Stephen Blahut
Cast: Brendan Fraser, Takehiro Hira, Mari Yamamoto, Shannon Mahina Gorman, Akira Emoto, Shino Shinozaki
Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hr 43 mins
