Rental Family is the latest film by Japanese filmmaker Hikari (37 Seconds), a director known for blending tenderness with emotional depth. Here, she returns with a comedy-drama clearly designed to tug at the heartstrings – and for the most part, succeeds – all set against the picturesque backdrop of Japan.
Rental Family is a heartwarming and sincerely crafted story that stands out largely because of its unique premise. The film explores the unusual world of “rental family” agencies in Japan (a concept I was completely unfamiliar with) and uses it to examine loneliness, connection, and identity. What could easily have come across as gimmicky instead becomes something surprisingly tender. Hikari and her team treat the material with empathy, restraint, and a gentle touch.
Brendan Fraser delivers an excellent performance as Phillip, an American actor adrift in Tokyo who finds unexpected meaning through his work as a stand-in family member — a job that impacts both him and the people he’s hired to help in ways he never anticipates. Fraser brings warmth, humility, and a natural sweetness to the role. His adorable smirk and humble eyebrow raise make him a wholesome onscreen presence, perfectly suited to this kindhearted character. It’s hard to imagine anyone else playing him. Thankfully, Fraser isn’t the only standout: he’s matched by a strong Japanese supporting cast, each actor bringing nuance and authenticity. Their relationships feel lived-in, and the emotional beats land because the characters feel like real people rather than stereotypes.
One of the film’s strongest elements is its sense of place. Rental Family showcases a wide range of Japanese settings – from the bustling energy of Tokyo’s city streets to quieter, regional landscapes – giving the film a rich visual backdrop that reinforces its themes of displacement and belonging.
The writing is thoughtful, offering well-drawn characters and moments of quiet honesty that resonate. There are even flashes of humour that help break tension in the film’s more raw moments. That said, the pacing can feel slow at times. While the unhurried tempo suits the introspective nature of the story, a few stretches dragged for me. And aside from a couple of minor twists, the plot is fairly predictable.
Despite these small shortcomings, Rental Family succeeds as a sincere, compassionate film about people seeking connection in unconventional ways. It’s a gently told story elevated by strong performances, a fascinating cultural backdrop, and heartfelt writing. Predictable or not, it leaves you with the warm sense that kindness – even manufactured kindness – can still be real.
Rating: 8/10
