Brendan Fraser’s latest starring film, “Rental Family,” has been announced as the American Express Gala presentation at this year’s London Film Festival. The screening will occur at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall on Thursday, October 16th, with Fraser and director Hikari set to appear.
Co-written and directed by Hikari (“Beef”), the film also features Takehiro Hira, Mari Yamamoto, Shannon Mahina Gorman, and Akira Emoto. Set in contemporary Tokyo, the story follows an American actor (Fraser) adrift in life until he accepts an unconventional job at a Japanese “rental family” agency, stepping into roles for strangers who hire him. As he becomes entwined in the lives of his clients, the boundaries between acting and reality begin to blur, leading him to confront the ethical questions of his work while rediscovering purpose, belonging, and the quiet grace of human connection.
“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,” Kristy Matheson, BFI London Film Festival Director, said in a statement. “Brendan Fraser is set to steal movie fans’ hearts once more with his stunning central performance in a film that explores the complexity of human relations with huge generosity and wit.”
The complete London Film Festival lineup will be unveiled on September 3rd. The 69th BFI London Film Festival runs from October 8th to the 19th.
Are you excited for this announcement? Are you looking forward to “Rental Family?” Will you be attending the BFI London Film Festival this year? Please let us know your thoughts in the comments section below or on our X account.
