Overview

• The Tokyo-set dramedy premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6 and is slated for a U.S. theatrical release on November 21 via Searchlight Pictures.
• Critics commend Fraser’s endearing, understated performance while noting the film’s agreeable tone can feel overly sentimental and light on character development beyond the lead.
• Directed and co-written by Hikari, the story follows an American actor who takes jobs with a Japanese agency that supplies stand-in family members, exploring connection and ethical gray areas without revealing key plot turns.
• During the TIFF premiere, Fraser briefly shielded Hikari onstage after her top strap broke, a moment captured in festival video and praised by attendees.
• Fraser said streaming has made audiences more selective, adding that it pushes him to “up your game” and choose projects like Rental Family more carefully.