Rental Family
Published on 1/16/2026
Image source: themoviedb.org In "Rental Family," an American actor named Phillip Vandarploeg, played by Brendan Fraser, navigates life in Tokyo, feeling lost and unfulfilled. His fortunes change when he takes a job with a rental family agency, where he steps into the roles of family members for clients in need. As Phillip immerses himself in the lives of those he portrays—such as a surrogate father for a single mother and a journalist for an aging actor—he forms unexpected connections that challenge his understanding of authenticity and performance. While the film explores themes of connection and identity, it also raises ethical dilemmas as Phillip grapples with the emotional complexities of his assignments. Despite its heartwarming intentions, "Rental Family" has been critiqued for predictability and a lack of depth, leaving viewers to ponder the true nature of relationships in a modern world.
Image source: themoviedb.org