Rental Family

 

    

        Written by (with Stephen Blahut) and directed by Hikari, this sweet natured comedy/drama stars Brendan Fraser as Phillip, an out of work actor living in Japan. 

         After starring in a hit toothpaste commercial, new opportunities are scarce until Phillip's agent gets him a role as as "sad American" at a funeral. It is there he learns of an agency that provides roles for actors to portray family members, friends and associates of various clientele (apparently, this is a very real business in Japan).

         Mr. Fraser brings an endearing, sensitive side to his performance as Phillip and he is excellent as he takes on different roles for the agency. It is only after he becomes too close and involved with his "clients" that things become complicated.

          Takehiro Hira plays Shinji, the agency owner and Mari Tamamoto is Aiko, an employee there who befriends Phillip. The film also stars as clients, Shino Shinozaki as a single mother needing a "father" for her daughter Mia (Shannon Mahina Gorman) and Akira Emoto as an elderly, famous filmmaker, Phillip is hired to interview as a "journalist". The film is very well cast and Ms. Gorman is adorable and wise beyond her years, as Mia.

          The film takes place in Tokyo and is steeped in Japanese culture. The city and country of Japan itself, also make for a beautiful visual background. 

            If you're looking for something different that you don't see in theaters much these days, this gentle, low key film is perfect.