Brendan Fraser delivers another emotionally powerful performance in “Rental Family,” a touching comedy-drama that explores loneliness, identity, and human connection in modern Tokyo. Based on a real Japanese industry, this unique film arrives just in time for Thanksgiving weekend.
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Rental Family Movie Details at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | November 21, 2025 |
| Director | Hikari (Beef creator) |
| Writers | Hikari, Stephen Blahut |
| Lead Star | Brendan Fraser |
| Supporting Cast | Takehiro Hira, Mari Yamamoto, Shannon Gorman, Akira Emoto |
| Genre | Comedy-Drama |
| Runtime | 1 hour 43 minutes |
| Rating | PG-13 |
| Distributor | Searchlight Pictures |
| Critical Score | 96% on Rotten Tomatoes (48 reviews) |
Release Date and Where to Watch
Rental Family arrives in US theaters on November 21, 2025, distributed by Searchlight Pictures. This Thanksgiving release positions the film perfectly for family viewing during the holiday weekend.
The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025, and was also showcased at Tokyo International Film Festival and Stockholm International Film Festival, building strong critical acclaim ahead of its wide release.
For more updates on upcoming releases, visit our movies section.
The Story: Acting Your Way to Real Connection
The film follows an American actor in Tokyo who struggles to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig: working for a Japanese “rental family” agency, playing stand-in roles for strangers. Brendan Fraser portrays Phillip Vandarploeug, a down-and-out performer who’s spent seven years in Tokyo without career success.
The rental family industry is real in Japan, where over 300 companies have provided companionship services since the 1980s. Clients hire actors to portray missing family members, friends, romantic partners, or other roles to fill emotional voids in their lives. As Phillip takes on various assignments, he discovers genuine connections that blur the line between performance and reality.
Why Critics Are Raving
On Rotten Tomatoes, 96% of 48 critics’ reviews are positive, with the consensus reading: “A sweet-natured dramedy about faking human connection until you make it, Rental Family provides Brendan Fraser an ideal showcase for his sensitive star power while backing him up with a terrific ensemble”.
Critics praise director Hikari’s empathetic storytelling and the film’s exploration of moral complexities. The movie tackles whether providing professional companionship is genuinely helpful or ethically questionable, never shying away from difficult questions while maintaining its warmth and humanity.
Discover more award-worthy performances in our entertainment coverage.
Stellar Cast and Creative Team
Brendan Fraser leads an exceptional ensemble including Takehiro Hira as Shinji (the rental family agency owner), Mari Yamamoto as Aiko (an agency employee), Shannon Gorman in her film debut, and legendary Japanese actor Akira Emoto. The film features a beautiful score by Jónsi and Alex Somers.
Director Hikari, known for creating the acclaimed Netflix series “Beef,” brings her signature visual storytelling and emotional depth to this US-Japan co-production filmed in Tokyo during Spring 2024.
Check out more information on IMDb’s official Rental Family page and Rotten Tomatoes.
Fraser’s Post-Oscar Comeback
This marks Brendan Fraser’s first leading role since winning the Academy Award for Best Actor in “The Whale” (2022). Fraser told Deadline he couldn’t resist the opportunity to work in Japan and explore this unique cultural phenomenon through film.
Stay updated on the latest film news through our cinema updates hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the rental family concept in the movie based on real life?
Yes! Rental family services have operated in Japan since the 1980s, with over 300 companies offering companionship for various needs—from wedding dates to temporary family members. The film authentically portrays this unique Japanese industry.
Q: What is Rental Family rated and is it family-friendly?
Rental Family is rated PG-13 and runs 1 hour 43 minutes. Critics describe it as heartwarming and suitable for the entire family, with its gentle comedy and uplifting themes about human connection, making it perfect for Thanksgiving weekend viewing.
