Rental Family is a 2025 Japanese-American dramatic comedy film directed by Hikari and co-written with Stephen Blahut. The film stars Brendan Fraser in his first leading role since his Oscar-winning performance in The Whale, alongside Mari Yamamoto, Takehiro Hira, Akira Emoto, and Shannon Gorman.
Set in Tokyo, the story follows a down-on-his-luck American actor who takes a job at a “rental family” agency—where strangers are hired to play roles like a father, husband, or brother. As he steps into other people’s lives, he begins to reconnect with his own sense of identity and emotional purpose.
Blending quiet humor with heartfelt emotion, Rental Family explores themes of loneliness, human connection, and the meaning of family. The film will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025, followed by a limited U.S. release on November 21, 2025, via Searchlight Pictures.
Rental Family Age Rating
Rental Family is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, strong language, and some suggestive content. Below is a spoiler-free breakdown of its content to help families make informed viewing decisions:
Language
The film includes occasional use of strong language, including a few uses of profanity. These moments are infrequent and not overly aggressive but are present in emotional or frustrated dialogue.
Mature Themes
Themes include emotional loneliness, social disconnection, and identity. The film touches on grief, rejection, and the idea of people renting relationships to feel less alone. These are handled with sensitivity and emotional depth but may raise questions for younger viewers.
Sex & Suggestive Content
There is mild suggestive dialogue and a few conversations about adult relationships and intimacy, but there are no explicit scenes or nudity. The tone stays respectful and restrained.
Violence & Peril
None. This film does not include violence, action, or physical conflict. Emotional tension and sadness are the main sources of dramatic weight.
Is Rental Family Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Caution advised. While there’s nothing graphic, the film’s emotional themes and cultural context may be hard for pre-teens to fully understand or appreciate. It’s not harmful, but it may not hold their interest.
Ages 13–17: Generally suitable. Thoughtful and mature teens—especially those interested in emotional stories or different cultures—may find the film meaningful. Parents may want to explain some of the adult themes, but overall, it’s a safe watch for teens.
Rental Family is best suited for ages 13 and up, thanks to its deeper emotional themes and light PG-13 content. It may even open thoughtful conversations about loneliness and chosen families.
How Parents Can Support the Viewing
Watch Together: Consider watching with your teen to help explain cultural concepts or emotional moments.
Talk About the Themes: After viewing, discuss the idea of “rented” relationships and what it says about human connection and loneliness.
Encourage Reflection: Ask your teen how they would feel in the characters’ shoes. It’s a great way to build emotional awareness.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Rental Family?
A: The film is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, some strong language, and suggestive material.
Q: Is Rental Family appropriate for kids?
A: It’s most appropriate for teens 13 and older due to mature themes and occasional strong language.
Q: Is there any violence in the film?
A: No. There is no violence or physical danger in this film.
Q: Does Rental Family have sexual content?
A: There are mild suggestive themes but no explicit sexual content or nudity.
Q: Where can I watch Rental Family?
A: The film will premiere at TIFF in September 2025 and release in U.S. theaters on November 21, 2025.