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365 Days Part 2: A Problematic Portrayal of Love and Consent

Introduction

Netflix's 365 Days: This Day (2022), the sequel to the 2020 film 365 Days, has ignited controversy over its depiction of love, consent, and gender dynamics. This essay critically examines the complexities of the film, exploring its problematic elements and analyzing the different perspectives on the issue. Drawing upon research, news articles, and other credible sources, this essay argues that 365 Days: This Day glorifies an abusive relationship and sends a dangerous message about consent and women's autonomy.

A Twisted Tale of Love and Control

The film centers around the tumultuous relationship between Laura Biel (Anna-Maria Sieklucka) and Massimo Torricelli (Michele Morrone), a Sicilian mafia boss. After Laura is kidnapped by Massimo and held captive for 365 days in the first film, the sequel follows their tumultuous relationship as they navigate issues of trust, consent, and their own personal demons. However, the film's portrayal of their relationship is deeply problematic.

Massimo's actions towards Laura are consistently controlling and abusive. He stalks her, isolates her from her friends and family, and forces her to do things she does not want to do. Despite Laura's repeated pleas for him to respect her boundaries, Massimo ignores her wishes and continues to assert his dominance over her.

Consent: Blurred Lines and Coercion

The film's handling of consent is particularly troubling. The line between consent and coercion is blurred as Massimo's manipulation and power dynamics make it difficult for Laura to freely make choices. The film presents Laura's eventual acceptance of Massimo's advances as a form of Stockholm Syndrome, where she develops feelings for her captor as a coping mechanism for her trauma.

This romanticization of Stockholm Syndrome sends a dangerous message that it is acceptable for victims of abuse to fall in love with their abusers. In reality, Stockholm Syndrome is a complex psychological phenomenon that should not be sensationalized or glamorized.

Critics and Controversy

The film has been met with widespread criticism from critics and audiences alike. Many have condemned its portrayal of an abusive relationship as romantic and its trivialization of consent. The film's star, Anna-Maria Sieklucka, has also spoken out against the sequel, saying that she was misled about the nature of the film's storyline.

The controversy surrounding 365 Days: This Day has sparked a broader conversation about the representation of abusive relationships in popular culture. Critics argue that the film perpetuates harmful stereotypes and sends a dangerous message to viewers, especially young women.

Complexities and Nuances

Despite its problematic portrayal of love and consent, the film does raise some complex questions about the nature of abuse and the dynamics of power in relationships. Some viewers have argued that the film accurately depicts the complexities of an abusive relationship and that it can be a valuable tool for raising awareness about the issue of domestic violence.

However, it is important to note that the film fails to adequately address the harmful effects of abuse and does not provide a realistic or healthy model for relationships. While it is important to explore the complexities of abuse, it is equally important to portray it accurately and without romanticizing or excusing abusive behavior.

Conclusion

365 Days: This Day is a deeply problematic film that glorifies an abusive relationship and sends a dangerous message about consent and women's autonomy. The film's portrayal of Stockholm Syndrome as a romantic love story is both inaccurate and harmful, and it perpetuates the myth that victims of abuse can or should fall in love with their abusers. The controversy surrounding the film has sparked a broader conversation about the representation of abusive relationships in popular culture, and it is important to continue this dialogue to ensure that harmful stereotypes are not perpetuated and that accurate and healthy representations of relationships are promoted.

By critically examining the complexities of films like 365 Days: This Day, we can raise awareness about the issue of domestic violence, challenge harmful stereotypes, and promote healthier and more respectful relationships.