Japan’s Hidden Industry: Rental Family

What if family could be rented?
In Japan, this isn’t fiction — it’s reality.

Join us for an exclusive screening of
Rental Family at the Chicago International Film Festival

A film that pulls back the curtain on one of Japan’s most thought-provoking practices: hired relatives, spouses, even friends.
Is it loneliness, survival, or simply a new kind of connection?
You decide.

Synopsis
Set in modern-day Tokyo, Rental Family follows an American actor (Brendan Fraser) who struggles to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig: working for a Japanese “rental family” agency, playing stand-in roles for strangers. As he immerses himself in his clients’ worlds, he begins to form genuine bonds that blur the lines between performance and reality. Confronting the moral complexities of his work, he rediscovers purpose, belonging, and the quiet beauty of human connection.

At this screening, director HIKARI will receive the Festival’s Spotlight Award.

HIKARI is an award-winning writer, director, and producer whose debut feature, 37 Seconds, premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival and won accolades globally. She’s directed episodes of the Emmy-winning series Beef, as well as Tokyo Vice and acclaimed shorts like Tsuyako.

Get your tickets at Protected content Reserve seats if you arrive earlier than everyone else.

Whatsapp will be provided to those who joining. See you at the line!