I feel like the loneliness, right?

It's like epidemic of loneliness.

It's just happening everywhere.

No, it's not just Japan.

I mainly focused a story based in Tokyo.

The business itself exists in Tokyo.

But for me, and also reason why I brought a character like Brandon Fraser's character,

because it's happening not just in Japan, but everywhere.

You know, Hello, and welcome back to the Directors' Cut, brought to you by the Directors' Guild of America.

In this episode, a lonely American actor lands an unusual gig with the Japanese agency, and director Hikari's comedic drama, Rental Family.

The film tells the story of Philip, an actor struggling to find work and purpose in Tokyo.

After discovering a company that hires actors to play a role in real people's lives,

he immerses himself in his client's worlds and rediscovered purpose, belonging, and the beauty

of human connection.

In addition to rental family, Hikari's other directorial credits include the feature film 37 seconds

and episodes of the series, Beef, and Tokyo Vice.

Following a screening of the film at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles,

Ikari spoke with director Nicole Hollifziner about filming rental family.

Listen on for their spoiler-filled conversation.

Thank you. conversation. Wasn't that a really lovely movie?

Thank you.

Thank you.

...