Is Netflix’s Mala Influencia Worth Your Weekend Watch?
This week, Netflix is set to release Mala Influencia, a Spanish thriller that features popular stars from the platform’s biggest hits. Initially released in Spain in January, the film has garnered a mixture of reviews so, what do critics really think of it?
A Gripping Plot with a Twisted Romance
Mala Influencia, also known as Bad Influence, kicks off with wealthy heiress Reese, portrayed by Eléa Rochera. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she gets a new bodyguard, Eros, played by Alberto Olmo, a troubled ex-con whose past threatens to resurface. As they navigate their professional relationship, an undeniable attraction develops. However, this quickly spirals into a complex web of secrets and past demons that they must confront.
Fans of Spanish Netflix series will be pleased to see familiar faces, including Elite star Mirela Balić and Money Heist’s Enrique Arce.
Critical Reception
While Mala Influencia offers an eye-catching premise, opinions from both critics and audiences vary widely. One scathing review on IMDb describes the film as a melodramatic “fever dream” that fails to deliver on its promises of suspense and intrigue. “If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a Lifetime movie and an Instagram influencer’s highlight reel had a baby, this is it,” the review asserts.
Conversely, some viewers have praised the film, calling it “a very well-conducted romantic thriller with an unexpected ending” and “a great movie” filled with drama and romance.
Yet, the pendulum swings again, as numerous disappointed viewers slammed it, with one declaring it “one of the worst movies I have seen in a long time,” criticizing its clichéd teen scenarios and nonsensical plot.
Viewer Feedback
Audience reactions reveal a deep divide. On one hand, there are those who appreciate the film for its captivating tension and dramatic storyline. On the other, many viewers are left feeling cheated by an incoherent plot and wooden dialogue. A particularly frustrated viewer wrote, “The best thing was the trailer, which basically summarizes the entire film… you save an hour and a half of your life.”
As critics dissect Mala Influencia, the ultimate question remainIs it so bad that it’s good, or simply unwatchable?
What to Expect
Mala Influencia will stream on Netflix starting Friday, May 9. This weekend, if you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to find out for yourself if this film lives up to its glittering promotional strategies or falls flat under the weight of its own ambition.
Explore More
Before diving into Mala Influencia, consider checking out other Spanish gems from Netflix, like the critically acclaimed La Casa de Papel (Money Heist) or the teen thriller Élite.
Feeling adventurous? Take a deeper dive into Money Heist, or explore the gripping narratives of Élite here.
If you’re looking to upgrade your streaming options, don’t forget that Sky offers Netflix with their packages.
As Mala Influencia hits screens, it stands at a crossroads between being a guilty pleasure and a monumental flop. With mixed early reviews, it might just pique your curiosity enough to give it a watch. Will it be a late-night guilty pleasure or a film you’ll wish you hadn’t seen? There’s only one way to find out!
Happy streaming!
