365 days

Critically panned, the steamy Polish flick is a streaming success thanks to TikTok teenagers and curious fans. But there’s also a growing backlash from those who say it glorifies rape culture.

365 Days: A Controversial and Sensational Erotic Drama

The 365 Days film series has captured global attention with its provocative storytelling, passionate romance, and high-stakes drama. Based on the bestselling Polish novel 365 Dni by Blanka Lipińska, the film adaptation first premiered on Netflix in 2020 and quickly became a hot topic among audiences. With its mix of eroticism, luxury, and danger, the film series has both captivated and polarized viewers

Plot Overview

The story follows Laura Biel, a young Polish woman who finds herself in an unexpected and dangerous romance with Massimo Torricelli, a powerful Sicilian mafia boss. After surviving an assassination attempt that kills his father, Massimo becomes obsessed with Laura and kidnaps her, giving her 365 days to fall in love with him.

The plot unfolds in a whirlwind of lavish settings, passionate encounters, and dramatic twists. As Laura navigates her new life filled with wealth, power, and undeniable attraction to Massimo, she must also face the darker realities of his criminal world. Throughout the series, themes of obsession, power, and desire drive the narrative, making 365 Days an intense and controversial love story.

Themes and Reception

Controversial Romance

One of the biggest points of contention regarding 365 Days is its depiction of romance and consent. Many critics have argued that the film romanticizes kidnapping and toxic relationships, blurring the line between passion and coercion. Despite this, many fans of the series have praised its intense chemistry and escapist fantasy elements.

Luxury and Fantasy

The series is known for its stunning visual aesthetics, showcasing extravagant locations, luxurious lifestyles, and high-fashion wardrobes. This opulent portrayal creates an escapist fantasy for viewers, similar to the appeal of franchises like Fifty Shades of Grey.

Eroticism and Sensuality

365 Days pushes boundaries with its bold depiction of intimacy and eroticism. The film features extended sensual scenes that have drawn comparisons to other well-known erotic dramas. However, while some viewers appreciate the film’s uninhibited approach to sexuality, others criticize it for lacking depth in character development and storytelling.

The Success of the Franchise

Despite the mixed reviews, 365 Days became a massive global success. It dominated Netflix’s Top 10 list in several countries, drawing in millions of viewers. Due to its popularity, two sequels were released: 365 Days: This Day (2022) and The Next 365 Days (2022), continuing the dramatic love story between Laura and Massimo while introducing new characters and complications.

The sequels expanded the narrative, adding layers of intrigue, betrayal, and unexpected plot twists. The introduction of a new love interest, Nacho, further complicated Laura’s relationship with Massimo, leading to an emotionally charged love triangle.

Criticism and Backlash

Lack of Strong Plot Development

One of the major criticisms of the 365 Days series is its weak storyline. Many reviewers argue that the films prioritize sensuality over substantial character arcs and plot depth. The dialogue and character motivations have been called shallow, making it difficult for some viewers to connect emotionally with the story.

Toxic Relationship Dynamics

Another significant criticism revolves around the portrayal of relationships. Some audiences and critics believe that the series glorifies possessiveness, manipulation, and abusive behavior under the guise of romance. This has sparked debates on whether such portrayals contribute to unhealthy perceptions of love.

Comparisons to Fifty Shades of Grey

Due to its erotic themes and billionaire-dominant male lead, 365 Days is frequently compared to Fifty Shades of Grey. However, while Fifty Shades attempted to delve into deeper emotional and psychological aspects of its characters, 365 Days leans more toward an exaggerated fantasy with minimal exploration of its protagonists’ complexities.

Cultural Impact and Fan Reactions

Despite the criticism, 365 Days has a dedicated fanbase. Many viewers appreciate the films for what they are—sensational, visually captivating escapism. The series has inspired memes, social media discussions, and debates about the nature of romantic storytelling in modern cinema.

The lead actors, Michele Morrone (Massimo) and Anna-Maria Sieklucka (Laura), have gained immense popularity due to their roles, further fueling the film’s cultural relevance. Morrone, in particular, has become a heartthrob among fans, leading to opportunities beyond acting, including a music career.

Future of the Franchise

Although The Next 365 Days wrapped up many of the series’ storylines, speculation remains about whether the franchise will continue. Given the films’ financial success and ongoing fan engagement, there is potential for spin-offs or new adaptations from Blanka Lipińska’s works.

Conclusion

365 Days is undeniably one of the most talked-about erotic dramas of recent years. While its portrayal of romance remains controversial, its bold storytelling, passionate performances, and visually striking aesthetics make it a standout entry in the genre. Love it or hate it, the film series has left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide, proving that provocative storytelling continues to captivate viewers in the streaming era.