The film title is “Rental Family” in English.
Kenta Mikami (Shun Shioya) runs a unique business offering “rental” family members, relatives, and even friends to those in need. From delivering heartfelt congratulations at weddings to offering apologies on behalf of cheaters, Mikami steps into the roles of father, son, or even lover at his clients’ request.
As Mikami crosses paths with people from all walks of life, a common thread ties his clients together: dissatisfaction with their current lives and a yearning for fleeting happiness, no matter the cost. Some even become dependent on this fabricated happiness, forcing Mikami to confront the ethical dilemmas of his business. The most heart-wrenching moments come when a child must learn that the man they believed to be their father was a complete stranger all along.
Rental Family presents a fictional exploration of a very real phenomenon. Beneath its surface lies a poignant commentary on the loneliness of modern life and the scarcity of genuine human connections, particularly within the context of Japan’s culture of maintaining appearances.
A fresh take on “staffing solutions,” this film blends social critique with profound human stories to challenge perceptions of happiness and connection.
