December 19-22 | Friday-Monday | 1 hour, 43 minutes | Rated PG-13 |
This is a film that we’ve had our eyes on for months, since we first saw the trailer. Brendan Frasier being the lead would have been enough, but him playing a white actor in Japan who starts taking on live roles as “rental family,” just looked too silly and sweet. Whether he’s pretending to be a father, a brother, a fiancee, a best friend, or something else entirely, it shows how important that human connection is to nearly everyone. It currently has an 87% Tomatometer (critics) and a 96% Popcornmeter (audiences) on Rotten Tomatoes.
“This is a beautiful and contemplative film, with lovely messaging and a couple of sly twists.” -Richard Roeper, RogerEbert.com
“One of the most heartwarming and humane films of the year.” -Nell Minow, MovieMom
“It’s a testament to the cast, the screenwriting and Hikari that all these narrative threads weave together for an uplifting message about our need to connect with others and be part of a community.” -Randy Myers, San Jose Mercury News
“It wears its heart on its sleeve and is a bit too sentimental, but it is sweet and pleasing.” -G. Allen Johnson, San Francisco Chronicle
“The arc of the film seems clear; we’re about to witness people rediscovering the importance of human connection. Grab the tissues!” -Stephanie Merry, Washington Post
“a dramedy that proves a charming surprise balancing poignancy and humor with rare delicacy.” -Frank Scheck, The Hollywood Reporter
“wonderfully life-affirming and quietly resonant” -Katie Walsh, Tribune News Service
“This is gentle, crowd-pleasing drama comedy powered by Fraser’s heroic comeback. It won’t break your heart — but it might quietly mend a small piece of it.” -Linda Marric, HeyUGuys
“As it bounces between dad movie, film lovers flick and workplace comedy, “Rental Family” also makes its own connection between Fraser and the audience, reminding us he’s a beloved Hollywood figure on quite a heartwarming hot streak.” -Brian Truitt, USA Today
Rental Family opens at The Clyde on Friday, December 19, and plays Friday, Saturday, and Monday at 7:30, plus Sunday at 2:00.
