BREAKING: Brendan Fraser’s highly anticipated film, ‘Rental Family’, is set to make waves as the official American Express Gala presentation at the 69th BFI London Film Festival, taking place from October 8 to October 19 in London. Directed by Hikari, known for acclaimed projects like ’37 Seconds’ and the Emmy-winning series ‘Beef’, this comedy-drama promises to captivate audiences with Fraser’s compelling performance.
The world premiere of ‘Rental Family’ is scheduled for October 16 at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall. This unique film explores the life of an American performer (played by Fraser) who finds work with a Japanese company that provides temporary family members for hire. The story unfolds in Tokyo, highlighting Fraser’s character’s journey as he navigates unexpected human connections that challenge his perceptions of authentic relationships.
Fraser is joined by an impressive cast including Hira Takehiro (Emmy nominee for ‘Shogun’), Yamamoto Mari (‘Pachinko’), and Shannon Mahina Gorman. The film’s narrative dives deep into the longing for connection and the complexities of friendship in today’s world.
Hikari expressed excitement about the film’s selection, stating,
“I feel so humbled and honored to return to the 2025 BFI London Film Festival with my second feature, ‘Rental Family,’ and with a gala presentation. While it’s inspired by a real, and sometimes unusual, business in Japan, it’s ultimately about people longing for connection, and discovering the meaning of true friendship in modern Tokyo.”
Kristy Matheson, Director of the BFI London Film Festival, highlighted the film’s significance, saying,
“Following the acclaimed ’37 Seconds’ and the subversive, roller coaster ride of ‘Beef,’ we are excited to bring writer-director Hikari’s latest comedy-drama ‘Rental Family’ to the BFI London Film Festival as our American Express Gala. Brendan Fraser is set to steal movie fans’ hearts once more.”
The festival will take place across numerous venues including BFI Southbank, BFI IMAX, and several partner cinemas in London’s West End, as well as locations in Glasgow, Manchester, and Bristol. The complete festival program is set to be unveiled on September 3.
Fans eager to catch ‘Rental Family’ in the U.K. will have to wait until January for its theatrical release by Searchlight Pictures. With Fraser’s return to the screen and the unique premise of this film, anticipation is building rapidly.
Stay tuned for more updates as the festival approaches and be sure to mark your calendars for this exciting premiere!
