August 6, 2025

Searchlight Pictures has unveiled the first trailer for 'Rental Family', a highly anticipated dramatic comedy featuring Oscar-winner Brendan Fraser in his leading role since the acclaimed film 'The Whale'. Directed by the talented Japanese filmmaker Hikari, known for her works like '37 Seconds' and 'Beef', 'Rental Family' is set to make its grand debut at the Toronto International Film Festival this September before officially hitting theaters on November 21, 2025. This intriguing film is based in Tokyo, where it chronicles the experiences of a struggling American actor played by Fraser. In a twist of fate, he secures a job at a unique Japanese agency that specializes in renting out 'family' members to clients who crave a semblance of family connections. The concept of a 'rental family' agency might sound unusual, yet it paves the way for a poignant narrative as Fraser’s character enters the lives of strangers, donning various roles such as a husband, father, or brother. As the protagonist immerses himself in these fabricated familial dynamics, he unexpectedly forms deep emotional connections. Through this exploration, Fraser’s character discovers a renewed sense of belonging in a world where familial ties are intricately redefined. The film's tagline suggests a heartfelt journey into loneliness and identity, inviting viewers to reflect on the families we curate in our lives. Fraser is joined by a talented ensemble cast, featuring Mari Yamamoto from 'Monarch', Takehiro Hira from 'Shogun', and Akira Emoto, known for his role in 'Dr. Akagi'. Together, this cast promises to deliver a compelling portrayal of the emotional depth associated with familial structures, both real and constructed. Hikari, who co-wrote the screenplay alongside Stephen Blahut, the cinematographer of '37 Seconds', creates a seamless blend of storytelling that promises to resonate with audiences. The film was shot on location in Japan from March to May of last year. Filming in an authentic setting adds cultural specificity and richness, enhancing the narrative’s emotional weight. Cinematography by Takurô Ishizaka captures the vibrant spirit of Tokyo while editing by Thomas A. Krueger ensures a smooth narrative flow. The marketing campaign for 'Rental Family' is equally engaging, featuring quirky mock advertisements for the fictional Rental Family Agency. In these ads, Fraser showcases various life scenarios—whether clad in wedding attire or golf gear, or sitting cozily for movie nights—highlighting the hilariously unconventional aspects of the storyline. This is Hikari’s second feature film, following the successful release of '37 Seconds', which debuted at the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival and was distributed by Netflix. Her ability to weave humor into poignant narratives makes her a prominent figure in contemporary filmmaking, with 'Rental Family' expected to further solidify her reputation as a visionary director in the industry. With a compelling premise that delves into themes of loneliness and the essence of family, 'Rental Family' is positioned to be a thought-provoking film that will resonate with viewers. As audiences eagerly await its release, the combination of Fraser's celebrated acting and Hikari’s directorial vision promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience. Keep an eye out as this film unfolds; it may offer a refreshing perspective on familial bonds that goes beyond conventional narratives.

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Tags: Brendan fraser, Rental family, Toronto international film festival, Hikari, Comedy, Film trailer,