Netflix’s Bad Influence (Mala Influencia), a Spanish romantic thriller directed by Chloé Wallace, premiered on May 9, 2025, targeting global audiences, especially fans of teen dramas in Spain and beyond. The film, adapted from a Wattpad novel by teensspirit, follows an ex-convict bodyguard and a teen heiress entangled in a forbidden romance amid a stalker threat. Streamed exclusively on Netflix with a TV-MA rating, it blends romance, suspense, and social issues but falters in execution, earning mixed reviews.
In This Article:
Plot and Performances
Bad Influence centers on Eros Douglas (Alberto Olmo), a brooding ex-con hired by wealthy restaurateur Bruce Russell (Enrique Arce) to protect his ballerina daughter, Reese (Eléa Rochera), from a mysterious stalker. Their class differences and forbidden attraction drive the narrative, set in affluent Madrid. The chemistry between Olmo and Rochera sparks but lacks depth due to weak dialogue and underdeveloped characters. Arce, a standout from Money Heist, is underutilized, while supporting actors like Mirela Balić add little substance. X posts criticize the “atrocious acting” and “confusing storyline,” reflecting viewer frustration.
Strengths and Flaws
The film’s moody aesthetic—gorgeous lighting and suggestive silences—creates an alluring vibe, enhanced by its Spanish backdrop. Its 51-million-read Wattpad source ensures a built-in audience, as seen in its Netflix traction. However, critics slam its pacing, with a sluggish middle and rushed climax leaving plot holes, like the stalker’s vague motives. Rotten Tomatoes rates it 2/5, calling it a “stereotypical romance” that fails to balance thriller and drama elements. Reviewers note its “TikTokification,” prioritizing viral appeal over substance, with clichés like the “bad boy, good girl” trope.
Cultural and Ethical Concerns
Bad Influence raises eyebrows for its portrayal of a teen-adult romance dynamic, echoing trends in shows like Euphoria. Critics argue it fetishizes schoolgirls, casting adults as teens to skirt legal issues, which feels exploitative rather than critical. This aligns with broader concerns about Netflix’s sensationalized content, as seen in X debates about its influence on youth. The film’s social issue undertones—class disparity, past trauma—are underdeveloped, missing a chance for meaningful commentary.
Verdict and Impact
With a 4.2/10 IMDb score and X users calling it a “waste of time,” Bad Influence disappoints despite its potential. It’s seductive but insubstantial, a missed opportunity for a gripping thriller. Fans of Wattpad romances may enjoy its familiar beats, but others might skip it for Netflix’s stronger 2025 offerings, like The Royals. The film underscores the platform’s struggle to balance crowd-pleasing tropes with innovative storytelling, a debate likely to continue as streaming evolves.
-By MANOJ H