2025 * PG-13 * 1h 49m This is the first film I've seen Brendan Fraser in since his brilliant performance in "The Whale." And what an interesting film it is. Here he plays Phillip, an ex-pat living in Japan. He's been there for several years and speaks the language fluently. As with most foreigners living in the country, he never feels accepted or totally at home there. He's a struggling actor who's not working as much as he'd like.
Then he looks into an unusual new job. It involves being paid to act as a friend or guardian. Apparently, this is a real profession in Japan. He works for a variety of clients, most notably as a companion to an elderly gentleman, and as the American father to a young girl. She needs to have a father to get accepted into a school for gifted children. The only catch is, he's supposed to only meet the young girl a couple times, then he's to go overseas for work, never to meet up with her again. Of course, they quickly develop a special relationship and it's heart-wrenching to see how they deal with it.
This is not what I was expecting with this film. Mr. Fraser turns in an amazing performance. It's quite an emotional ride, and it's one you'll need to have some tissues on hand for. Highly recommended.
4 out of 5 stars
Currently streaming on Hulu and to rent on Prime, Apple TV, Fandango, and other streaming services.
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