Rent a Friend 2018
In *Rent a Friend (2018)*, director Mayu Akiyama crafts a quirky yet heartfelt drama that explores the blurred lines between friendship and convenience.
Director: Mayu Akiyama
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Rent a Friend* (2018) about?
The story follows Mochizuki Nasa, a web editor who hires Yanase Sota—a self-proclaimed professional friend—to test her theories about human connections. Their unusual arrangement reveals surprising truths about trust and authenticity in relationships.
Who directed *Rent a Friend*?
Mayu Akiyama directed this 2018 romantic drama, bringing a sharp yet sensitive touch to its unconventional premise.
Who stars in *Rent a Friend*?
The film features Eri Tokunaga as Nasa, Atsushi Hashimoto as Sota, and is supported by Sumire Ashina, Tomoko Nozaki, and Kana Yamada.
Is *Rent a Friend* (2018) worth watching?
While it's an unrated indie gem, the film's original concept and strong performances make it a charming watch for fans of light romance and social satire. The 79-minute runtime keeps it breezy without sacrificing depth.
How long is *Rent a Friend*?
The film runs for 79 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Rent a Friend (2018) — A Tokyo-set romance about renting the perfect companion
In *Rent a Friend (2018)*, director Mayu Akiyama crafts a quirky yet heartfelt drama that explores the blurred lines between friendship and convenience. Eri Tokunaga stars as Mochizuki Nasa, a web magazine editor with a bold hypothesis about human connections—until she meets Yanase Sota (Atsushi Hashimoto), a man who markets himself as the perfect platonic companion. His so-called "non-sexual relationship switch" turns their meeting into an unexpected experiment where Nasa pays him to test her theories in real time. Set against Tokyo's bustling urban backdrop, the film blends romance with subtle social commentary, questioning whether relationships built on transactions can ever feel genuine.
The chemistry between Tokunaga and Hashimoto drives the narrative, supported by a strong ensemble including Sumire Ashina and Tomoko Nozaki. Akiyama's direction balances lighthearted moments with deeper themes of loneliness and authenticity, making *Rent a Friend* a refreshing take on modern connections.