Brendan Fraser's much-anticipated return to the screen, the drama 'Rental Family', has landed with a disappointing thud, according to a damning review from The Guardian. The film, which premiered in September 2025, is being criticised as a cloying and clumsy misfire that squanders its intriguing premise and its star's talents.
The story centres on a down-on-his-luck American actor, played by Fraser, living in Tokyo. His character's life takes a bizarre turn when he is hired by a peculiar agency that provides fake relatives for clients lacking family connections. Instead of a nuanced exploration of loneliness and performance, the film is accused of descending into heavy-handed sentimentality.
Where It All Goes Wrong
The Guardian's review highlights several critical failings:
- A Wasted Concept: The fascinating setup of Japan's 'rent-a-family' industry is reportedly used merely as a shallow backdrop rather than explored with any depth or cultural sensitivity.
- Mawkish Execution: The film is condemned for its overly sentimental and saccharine approach, opting for cheap emotional manipulation instead of genuine character development.
- A Stranded Lead: Despite Fraser's committed performance, the script gives him little to work with, leaving his character feeling undefined and lost within the plot.
Critics suggest the film clumsily attempts to tug at heartstrings without earning its emotional moments, resulting in a hollow and unconvincing narrative. The potential for a sharp satire or a poignant drama is completely lost in what is described as a tonal mess.
Final Verdict
For fans of Brendan Fraser hoping for a compelling follow-up to his recent acclaimed roles, 'Rental Family' appears to be a significant step backwards. The review concludes that this is a well-intentioned but ultimately failed experiment, a sentimental journey that goes nowhere and leaves its talented star utterly stranded. This cinematic misstep is one for audiences to avoid.
