Bad Influence (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The 2025 film Bad Influence (Mala Influencia) is a compelling mix of teenage romance, mystery, and thriller, brought to life by director Chloé Wallace. Based on the popular Wattpad webnovel by the Valencian author “teensspirit,” this Spanish film dives deep into the lives of Reese Russell and Eros Douglas—two characters from completely different worlds whose lives intertwine through a series of dramatic events.
The Plot: A Story of Love and Intrigue
The movie follows Reese Russell (played by Eléa Rochera), a privileged and seemingly perfect young woman whose life is turned upside down when she starts receiving anonymous threats. In a bid to protect her, her father hires Eros Douglas (Alberto Olmo), a young ex-convict, as her bodyguard. Despite their starkly contrasting backgrounds, sparks fly as Reese and Eros are drawn into a dangerous game of secrets, betrayal, and romance.
From its intriguing premise to its dramatic twists, Bad Influence explores themes of class division, vulnerability, and resilience. While the story is reminiscent of popular titles like After or A Través de Mi Ventana, it carves its niche by blending romance with a thriller edge, offering audiences a refreshing take on the genre.
Direction and Cinematic Appeal
Director Chloé Wallace, known for her expertise in music videos and advertisements, employs a vibrant visual style that enhances the film’s appeal. The cinematography is sleek and modern, with high-energy party scenes and heartfelt romantic moments set to a killer soundtrack featuring artists like C. Tangana and Naiara. Wallace’s knack for creating visually striking scenes ensures that every frame feels purposeful and engaging.
The film also pays homage to iconic romantic dramas like Three Steps Above Heaven, using its aesthetic and musical choices to evoke a sense of nostalgia while appealing to a younger audience. Wallace successfully balances the film’s thriller and romantic elements, ensuring a captivating viewing experience.
Acting Performances
Eléa Rochera and Alberto Olmo deliver commendable performances as Reese and Eros. Their chemistry is palpable, which adds depth to their characters’ evolving relationship. However, some viewers might find the dialogue and character development a bit shallow, especially during pivotal scenes. Mirela Balic’s portrayal of Peyton, a troubled character from Eros’s past, stands out as a dramatic and emotional anchor for the narrative.
While the leads hold their ground, the supporting cast sometimes struggles with underdeveloped roles, a common issue for adaptations of Wattpad stories. Nevertheless, their performances contribute to the film’s overall charm.
Strengths and Weaknesses
One of the film’s most notable strengths is its departure from the toxic tropes often found in teenage romances. Unlike After or Culpables, Bad Influence avoids glamorizing unhealthy relationships. Instead, it focuses on personal growth, trust, and emotional vulnerability, making it a more relatable and empowering narrative.
However, the movie is not without its flaws. The storyline occasionally feels rushed, leaving some subplots unresolved. Additionally, while the film tries to maintain an air of mystery, certain twists lack the impact needed to elevate the suspense. Fans of the original novel might also be disappointed by deviations from the source material, including changes to key plot points.
The Soundtrack: A Highlight of the Film
The music in Bad Influence is a standout feature, with an eclectic mix of contemporary hits that perfectly complement the film’s tone. Songs by Sen Sera Aqua, Ralphie Choo, and Naiara elevate key moments, adding emotional depth and energy. Whether it’s a romantic montage or a tense confrontation, the soundtrack enhances the viewing experience.
Where to Watch Bad Influence Online
As of now, Bad Influence has yet to be released on streaming platforms in the United States. However, based on trends with similar films, it’s likely to become available on Netflix or Amazon Prime Video in the coming months. Rental and purchase options may also debut on platforms like Google Play, Apple TV, or Vudu.
For updates on streaming availability, check the JustWatch page for Bad Influence. Keep an eye out for announcements from major streaming services to catch this film as soon as it’s available.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Teen Romance Fans
Bad Influence is a film that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of teenage romance and mystery. While it’s not without its flaws, the engaging performances, stylish direction, and captivating soundtrack make it a worthwhile watch. Its departure from toxic tropes is a refreshing change, offering audiences a story that’s both thrilling and heartfelt.
If you’re a fan of Wattpad adaptations or enjoy films like Three Steps Above Heaven or After, this is a movie you won’t want to miss. Be sure to stay tuned for its streaming debut and experience the drama, romance, and intrigue for yourself.
Excited to watch Bad Influence? Bookmark its JustWatch page for updates on where to stream it. Don’t forget to share your thoughts about the film on social media and let us know if it lived up to the hype!
