An Unexpected Love Story About Life, Money, and Second Chances
2026
Drama, Romance
TheNextHint Score
8.0
8.0 / 10
Overview
One Year to Live, Buy a Man is a Japanese romantic drama centered on love, money, and unforeseen second chances. The story centers on Yui Katakura, a woman who has devoted years to saving money and steering clear of romance. Everything shifts for her following a serious medical diagnosis. All at once, she begins to question everything she has worked toward. She then encounters Sena, a nightclub host in need of money. Their unconventional arrangement introduces new experiences into Yui's life. The film examines how relationships can reshape our priorities and help us uncover what truly matters.
Quick Verdict
One Year to Live, Buy a Man presents an unconventional romantic setup, exploring emotional themes of life, love, and personal freedom. It could attract viewers who appreciate heartfelt Japanese dramas and relationships that break the mold.
Where to Watch One Year to Live, Buy a Man in the US
One Year to Live, Buy a Man is a Japanese romantic drama that arrived on Netflix on November 5, 2026. Ko Shibasaki and Eiji Akaso lead the cast of the film. The plot centers on a woman who, after receiving a life-altering diagnosis, chooses to spend her savings on an unforeseen relationship. The narrative delves into themes of love, money, loneliness, and the worth of being alive. The film is adapted from Toriko Yoshikawa’s novel of the same title.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is One Year to Live, Buy a Man about?
The film follows Yui Katakura, a woman diagnosed with a terminal illness. She decides to spend her savings on a nightclub host named Sena. Their unusual arrangement gradually develops into an unexpected relationship.
When was One Year to Live, Buy a Man released?
The movie premiered on Netflix on November 5, 2026.
Who stars in One Year to Live, Buy a Man?
The film stars Ko Shibasaki as Yui Katakura and Eiji Akaso as Sena. Michitaka Tsutsui, Naomi Nishida, and Mari Hamada also appear.
Is One Year to Live, Buy a Man based on a book?
Yes. It is based on the Japanese novel of the same name by Toriko Yoshikawa.
Story — Spoiler Free
Yui Katakura is a 40-year-old woman who has devoted her life to saving money and steering clear of romance. Her meticulously planned future takes a turn after a medical examination shows that she has only one year left to live. All at once, she finds little reason to continue saving. When Sena, a pink-haired nightclub host, asks her for money, Yui makes an offer he does not expect. She pays 720,000 yen in exchange for spending time with him. Their unconventional arrangement soon introduces new experiences, emotions, and unforeseen changes into both of their lives.
8.0
TheNextHint Score
8.0 / 10
One Year to Live, Buy a Man presents an unconventional romantic setup, exploring emotional themes of life, love, and personal freedom. It could attract viewers who appreciate heartfelt Japanese dramas and relationships that break the mold.
Rating breakdown
Story
8.0
Acting
8.0
Direction
8.0
Visuals
8.0
Sound
8.0
Entertainment
8.0
Pros
An unusual premise about love and mortality.
Ko Shibasaki and Eiji Akaso lead the cast.
A heartfelt story about living without regrets.
Offers a fresh take on romance and personal relationships.
Based on an award-winning Japanese novel.
Cons
The cancer diagnosis may make the story emotionally heavy.
The unusual relationship premise may not appeal to everyone.
Viewers looking for fast-paced romance may find the drama slower.
Who Should Watch
Fans of Japanese romantic dramas.
Ko Shibasaki and Eiji Akaso fans.
Viewers who enjoy unconventional romance plots.
Who Should Skip
Viewers who prefer action-heavy movies
People uncomfortable with stories involving terminal illness.
Release Date
2026-11-05
Runtime
1 hour 49 minutes (109 minutes)
Director
Hiroki Kazama
Producer
Kasumi Yao, Tsutomu Hirabayashi
Writer
Yoshikazu Okada
Cast
Ko Shibasaki, Eiji Akaso, Michitaka Tsutsui, Naomi Nishida, Mari Hamada, Yui Narumi, Yoko Moriguchi, Ryubi Miyase, Ichika Osaki, Koen Kondo
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