Rental Family Review: Brendan Fraser Shines in a Tender, Crowd-Pleasing Drama-Comedy

Rental Family features a performance-driven story set in modern Tokyo.

“Rental Family” is one of the most affecting international films in recent memory, marking another shining moment in Brendan Fraser‘s ongoing resurgence. Directed by HIKARI, the film unfolds in modern-day Tokyo and follows Phillip Vandarploeug, an American actor adrift in life and work. When he takes a job with a Japanese “rental family” agency, he begins filling the emotional gaps of strangers who need a father, a husband, or a friend. What begins as performance slowly transforms into a path toward belonging.

Fraser Anchors a Deeply Human Film

Fraser has always been a humbling talent, and this film reminds viewers why so many fans rooted for his return. He brings warmth, vulnerability, and humor to Phillip, a man who hides his grief behind an actor’s mask. Yet the film never positions him as the center of attention. His performance thrives because he shares the screen with a phenomenal Japanese cast that elevates every scene.

Takehiro Hira brings a rich sense of purpose to Shinji, the agency’s calm and grounded owner who sees Phillip’s potential long before he does. Mari Yamamoto brings tension and compassion as Aiko, who is unsure of Phillip’s ability. Shannon Mahina Gorman is unforgettable as Mia Kawasaki, a young girl longing for a father figure. Her tender moments with Fraser break your heart in quiet, devastating ways.

A Story That Balances Humor, Heartbreak, and Humanity

“Rental Family” works as a warm, crowd-pleasing drama-comedy, yet its emotional range is what stays with you. The film navigates you through a range of emotions, from laughter to grief, yearning, loneliness, and even anger, as Phillip delves deeper into lives that are not his own. HIKARI’s direction keeps the story grounded, and the pacing never falters. There are no stretches where you feel the urge to briefly check out; the film holds your attention with honesty, humor, and emotional clarity.

One of the film’s strongest threads involves Phillip’s growing bond with Kikuo Hasegawa, played by Akira Emoto. Hasegawa is a retired actor struggling with memory loss, and the connection between the two men forms the heart of the story. An actor playing an actor could have felt familiar, but the film avoids every cliché and digs into the quiet beauty of shared vulnerability.

A Japanese-Language Story Told With Authenticity

The film handles the Japanese language with care, and the English dialogue is used only when necessary. The blend feels natural and avoids the clunkiness that often appears in cross-cultural stories. Everything about the plot feels convincing and lived-in, thanks to the ensemble’s chemistry and HIKARI’s assured direction.

Verdict

“Rental Family” is thoughtful, emotional and beautifully acted. It may emerge as one of the strongest contenders for the Best International Feature award if it qualifies for the awards season. Fraser delivers some of his most moving work, and HIKARI continues to prove she is a filmmaker worth following.

In Theaters November 21st.

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