Brendan Fraser, whose recent comeback was marked by his Oscar-winning performance in The Whale, is now appearing in a film that seems to explore a different, quieter kind of reinvention. He stars in Rental Family, the latest film from writer-director Hikari, which is slated for a January 2026 release in the U.K.
The film, set in modern-day Tokyo, introduces an American actor, portrayed by Fraser, who finds himself aimless and disconnected. His life takes an unexpected turn when he accepts a peculiar position at a Japanese “rental family agency.” His job is to play various stand-in roles for strangers seeking temporary emotional support.
Performance and Reality
As his work continues, the actor begins to immerse himself in the lives of his clients, forming what the synopsis describes as “genuine bonds that blur the lines between performance and reality.” The film positions Fraser’s character at a moral crossroads, forcing him to confront the complexities of his profession. Through this, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, where he begins to find a sense of purpose and belonging.
Hikari, the director, is known for her work on the series Beef and Tokyo Vice. She wrote the screenplay for Rental Family with Stephen Blahut, with whom she also collaborated on her previous film, 37 Seconds.
The film features a supporting cast that includes several notable actors with ties to Japanese entertainment. Takehiro Hira, who was recently nominated for an Emmy for his role in Shōgun, joins the ensemble, along with Mari Yamamoto (Pachinko) and Akira Emoto (Shin Godzilla). Newcomer Shannon Gorman also appears.
Read more: Hikari and Lee Byung Hun to Be Honored at Toronto International Film Festival
Produced by Sight Unseen Pictures in partnership with Knockonwood, Rental Family is set to explore themes of identity and human connection against the backdrop of Tokyo’s unique “rental family” culture. The film’s score is composed by Jónsi and Alex Somers. The film promises a poignant look at the quiet beauty of authentic connection.
