GUILTY PLEASURE or glamorising abuse?

More than a third of viewers admit to being offended by violent and sexual content on TV*, yet there’s more of it on offer than ever

- KARA O'NEILL

Not since EL James’ Fifty Shades of Grey had women everywhere clamouring to get hold of a copy has an erotic ‘love story’ created such a furore. But the latest steamy offering from Netflix, 365 DNI (365 Days), has seduced millions, becoming the most popular film on the streaming service since its June release.

The Polish erotic thriller – based on the bestselling novel by Blanka Lipinska – follows fiery sales director Laura as she is kidnapped and imprisoned by the terrifying Massimo, a dangerous figure in a Sicilian crime family.

Mobster Massimo gives Laura 365 days to fall in love with him, with plenty of graphic and explicit scenes along the way that make Fifty Shades seem positively tame in comparison.

Yet despite its popularity, viewers are divided. While fans argue it’s harmless escapism and admit enjoying the steamy scenes, its critics argue the film romanticises Stockholm syndrome and glamorises violence and abuse.

EL James proved ‘sex sells’ back in 2012, and we’ve seen a rise in steamy novels, dramas, and films ever since. But where is the line? Do these films offer entertainment, or is there something disturbing about a love story with a backdrop of violence? Here Woman asks: should we be turned on? Or should we be turning off?

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