Bad Influence is a Spanish romantic thriller that originated as a Wattpad story. The movie has generally received a mixed to polarizing reception.
Summary
Bad Influence (original Spanish title: Mala Influencia) is a Spanish romantic thriller that originated as a Wattpad story. The plot centers on Reese, a wealthy and privileged high school student, and Eros, a mysterious young ex-convict who is hired by Reese’s controlling father, Bruce, to serve as her personal bodyguard after she begins receiving increasingly sinister threats from a stalker.
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Despite being from radically different worlds, Reese and Eros are forced into constant proximity as he enrolls in her school to protect her. Their strong, undeniable chemistry leads them to quickly blur the lines of their professional arrangement. As their forbidden romance develops, they attempt to uncover the identity of the stalker. Their investigation ultimately pulls them into a web of dark family secrets tied to a shared, tragic past involving their parents, forcing them to confront Bruce and the truth behind the threats.
Star Cast
- Eléa Rochera as Reese
- Alberto Olmo as Eros
- Enrique Arce as Bruce (Reese’s father)
- Mirela Balić as Peyton
- Farid Bechara as Diego
- Sara Ariño as Lily
Review
Bad Influence has generally received a mixed to polarizing reception. It is often viewed as a typical teen romantic drama or “erotic thriller” in the vein of content adapted from popular online fiction platforms.
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Positives:
- Many reviews highlight the strong on-screen chemistry between the two lead actors, Eléa Rochera and Alberto Olmo, as the main strength of the film.
- The movie is noted for its stylish visuals and attractive production quality.
- For fans of the “forbidden love” trope, the film delivers the essential dramatic beats of a wealthy girl falling for a mysterious “bad boy” bodyguard.
Negatives:
- The plot, particularly the mystery surrounding the stalker, is widely criticized as confusing, illogical, or “contrived,” with many feeling the ending and motivations were underdeveloped and rushed.
- Some critics found the dialogue and overall narrative to be weak, viewing the film as lacking the depth or genuine provocation it intended.
- The plot device of the protagonist’s father hiring an ex-con with a direct, secret connection to his past as a bodyguard is often pointed out as a major plot hole.
Overall, the film is best received by those looking for a dramatic, visually pleasing, and escapist teenage romance, rather than a tight, nuanced thriller.
Availability
Bad Influence (2025) is currently available for streaming on:
- Netflix (This is its primary distribution platform).