Brendan Fraser Shines Post-Oscar Success

Oscar winners, particularly those with unconventional roles, often struggle to find equally deserving successors for their roles. However, Brendan Fraser shines in his first leading role since The Whale. In Rental Family, Fraser plays an American actor in Tokyo who discovers a unique method to hone his craft. His outstanding performance in this dramedy balances humor and poignancy with exceptional finesse. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and is expected to resonate with audiences when it releases in theaters in November.

At the outset, Philip (Fraser) struggles financially after spending seven years in Tokyo. Following a major toothpaste commercial, work opportunities have dwindled, leaving him in a position where he’s resorted to playing a tree. Thus, he readily accepts a vague gig where his agent only informs him he’ll portray a “sad American.”

Philip discovers he’s attending a funeral with a deceased individual in an open casket among mourners. To his surprise, the person is alive, and he has been contracted by the “Rental Family” agency that specializes in hiring actors for “specialized performances” in personal role-playing situations, which is apparently a concept in Japan.

Shinji (Takehiro Hira, Shogun), the agency’s owner, appreciates Philip’s solemn performance and offers him a permanent position, stating, “We need a token white guy.” Despite initial hesitation, Philip accepts the offer, though he almost loses the job when he panics while portraying a groom in a secret marriage scenario.

Rental Family cleverly uses its unique premise for both humorous and emotional impact. Philip’s subsequent roles prove demanding as he struggles to keep his emotions separate from his professional responsibilities. In one instance, he pretends to interview a renowned Japanese actor (portrayed by the legendary Akira Emoto) at his daughter’s request, while in another, he plays the American father of an 11-year-old girl, Mia (Shannon Gorman, making a poignant film debut), as her mother seeks to enroll her in an elite school. Philip’s heartfelt demeanor often leads him into trouble with his clients.

The most touching aspect of the narrative is Philip’s bond with Mia, who believes he is her long-lost father. Yet, Rental Family also humorously examines how everyone engages in role-playing to some extent. Hikari and co-writer Stephen Blahut skillfully craft narrative twists that reveal relationships are not always as they seem, adding a layer of humor throughout the film.

Cinematographer Takuro Ishizaka captures the essence of Tokyo, using sweeping shots of the bustling city to highlight Philip’s loneliness and that of many other residents. Fraser, previously known for his physical comedic roles, now conveys a profound emotional depth through his performance. His portrayal effectively embodies the character’s outsider status, both physically and emotionally, enhancing the film’s impact. Supported by a strong cast including Mari Yamamoto, who plays a fellow role-player and friend, Fraser’s nuanced performance drives the film’s emotional core.

“Why do adults always lie?” Mia asks Philip during a particularly vulnerable moment. It’s a relatable question, to which Rental Family offers thoughtful and heartfelt responses.