Rental Family review – Brendan Fraser seeks meaning in pointless Japanese role-play drama

The GuardianWednesday, January 14, 2026 at 11:00:21 AM
Rental Family review – Brendan Fraser seeks meaning in pointless Japanese role-play drama
  • In the film 'Rental Family,' Brendan Fraser portrays Phillip, an American actor in Tokyo who becomes involved with a rental agency that provides actors for emotional support roles. Directed by Hikari, the film has received criticism for its perceived lack of depth and sentimentality, with some reviews labeling it as a pointless exploration of role-play therapy.
  • The film's reception is significant for Fraser, who has recently experienced a career resurgence, as it reflects the challenges of finding meaningful roles in a competitive industry while navigating the complexities of emotional storytelling.
  • 'Rental Family' touches on broader themes of human connection and emotional support, highlighting the growing trend of hired companionship in modern society. This narrative resonates with ongoing discussions about loneliness and the search for meaningful relationships in an increasingly disconnected world.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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