Set in modern-day Tokyo, RENTAL FAMILY follows an American actor (Brendan Fraser) who struggles to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig: working for a Japanese “rental family” agency, playing stand-in roles for strangers. As he immerses himself in his clients’ worlds, he begins to form genuine bonds that blur the lines between performance and reality…

Mark says:

For those with children, finding a place for them at the “best” school is an entirely distracting and serious issue. Some people move house, enrol their kids in prep school or invest in tutors, all to secure that rare opportunity. What about renting a husband/father/parent to persuade the school interview board that your child comes from the right sort of family, whose values align with those of the school. Only in Japan? How often are “western” celebrities, influencers and billionaire tech bros “hired” to promote a particular brand.
 Reviews:

“A small but meaningful reminder of how important kindness and human connection really are in a world that seems to be losing both.” Louisa Mooe, Screen Zealots.
 “The film wants to hug you, rather than unsettle. It is wonderfully filmed by director Hikari, infusing Tokyo with the most astonishing beauty,” Deborah Ross, The Spectator.
 “In an era where selfishness and intolerance are increasingly prevailing over empathy, this film is one of those that encourages you to visit your grandparents…or call that old friend you haven’t heard from in a long time.” Fran Chico, Fotogramas.