Brendan Fraser Explores Japan's Unique 'Rental Family' Service in New Film

Brendan Fraser stars in 'Rental Family,' a new film exploring Japan's unique service that provides actors to play family members. The film, set to release on November 21, uses humor and drama to discuss mental health stigma and the cultural nuances of a rental family service.

In an intriguing twist to his acting career, Brendan Fraser discovered the concept of Japan's 'rental family' services while working on the film 'Rental Family.' Before this project, Fraser was unaware of the service where actors are hired to impersonate relatives or friends for events.

The film, distributed by Searchlight Pictures, delves into this cultural phenomenon, set against the backdrop of Japan's societal norms. Fraser plays Phillip Vandarploeug, an actor working in Japan's rental family sector. His role highlights the underlying theme of mental health issues, a topic often stigmatized globally but particularly pronounced in Japan.

This comedy-drama sees Phillip navigating various roles, from a father to a journalist, in a story that intertwines humor with a poignant look at individual need for connection. The movie premiered at the Tokyo Film Festival, receiving reactions of sniffles and laughter, indicating its impact on audiences.

(With inputs from agencies.)