Is Rent a Friend Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Rent a Friend is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 79 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Rent a Friend Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2018, Rent a Friend enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Web magazine editor Mochizuki Nasa meets Yanase Sota who claims to be endowed with a "non-sexual relationship switch". Under the direction of Mayu Akiyama, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Eri Tokunaga, Atsushi Hashimoto, Sumire Ashina. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Rent a Friend offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Rent a Friend resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, Rent a Friend is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Rent a Friend centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Web magazine editor Mochizuki Nasa meets Yanase Sota who claims to be endowed with a "non-sexual relationship switch". Working as a "rent-a-friend", Sota is hired by Nasa who wants to test out a theory. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2018 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Rent a Friend has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Rent a Friend sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Rent a Friend (2018): with an audience rating of 4.5/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Romance cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Rent a Friend has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Drama, Romance), viewers should expect romantic content.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.5/10, and global collection metrics, Rent a Friend stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2018 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rent a Friend movie hit or flop?
Rent a Friend is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.5/10 and lower collections.
Is Rent a Friend worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.5/10, Rent a Friend may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is Rent a Friend?
Rent a Friend is a Drama, Romance movie that Web magazine editor Mochizuki Nasa meets Yanase Sota who claims to be endowed with a "non-sexual relationship switch". Working as a "rent-a-friend", ...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Rent a Friend movie hit or flop?
Rent a Friend is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.5/10 and lower collections.
Is Rent a Friend worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.5/10, Rent a Friend may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is Rent a Friend?
Rent a Friend is a Drama, Romance movie that Web magazine editor Mochizuki Nasa meets Yanase Sota who claims to be endowed with a "non-sexual relationship switch". Working as a "rent-a-friend", ...
Is Rent a Friend family friendly?
Rent a Friend is a Drama, Romance movie. Please check the content rating before watching with family.
Where can I watch Rent a Friend?
You can find streaming options and availability for Rent a Friend on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of Rent a Friend?
Rent a Friend features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie Rent a Friend?
The runtime and duration of Rent a Friend are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
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