The Polish romantic thriller 365 Days (originally known as 365 Dni) debuted on Netflix in 2020 and rapidly became a global sensation, topping the charts as one of the service’s most-watched films. Despite its commercial success, the film was met with significant backlash from critics, who branded it as one of the worst movies ever made. Nonetheless, its popularity led to the development of a sequel, 365 Days: This Day, in 2022, followed by the conclusion of the trilogy with The Next 365 Days. All three films remain accessible on Netflix.
The saga of Massimo and Laura intertwines melodramatic narratives with elements of eroticism and controversial power dynamics. Though often likened to cheesy romance novels, these films satisfy certain cravings that more conventional options overlook. While few films can truly mimic the unique essence of 365 Days, there are several alternatives worth exploring for fans of the genre.
Updated April 12, 2025 by Mark Sammut:
Given the impressive reception of the trilogy, the relative absence of similarly themed films is surprising. Nonetheless, enthusiasts can engage with various romantic thrillers or dramas, albeit the latter tends to be more prevalent.
21 Eyes Wide Shut
A Twisted Tale Of Secrecy & Sex
| Director | Stanley Kubrick |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | July 16, 1999 |
| Where to Stream | FuboTV, Paramount+ |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 75% |
Stanley Kubrick’s last film, Eyes Wide Shut, remains a hallmark of his mastery. An erotic psychological thriller, it dives into the complexities of marital strife and the intrigue of infidelity. Kubrick’s meticulous editing just days before his passing demonstrates his commitment to his craft, solidifying this film’s legacy as a stunning yet surreal viewing experience.
20 Girls To Buy
A Journey Into A Dark Industry
| Director | Maria Sadowska |
|---|---|
| Release Date | November 26, 2021 |
| Where to Stream | Plex |
| Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score | 60% |
The Polish film Girls to Buy introduces viewers to Emi, a young woman lured into the world of sex work under the influence of Sam, a manipulative figure who exploits her aspirations for wealth and power. While it lacks the full-on erotic thriller label of 365 Days, it still illuminates the darker sides of temptation, power, and the façade that glittering lifestyles can present.
19 Indiscretion
Fun & Sordid
| Director | John Stewart Muller |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | March 10, 2016 |
| Where to Stream | N/A |
| Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score | 32% |
Indiscretion weaves together political thrills and steamy visuals, focusing on a married woman caught in an affair with a younger artist. Complications arise when the infatuated artist develops an obsession, leading to a series of dramatic twists that capture the audience’s attention through a blend of heat and tension.
18 Vicky Cristina Barcelona
A More Artistic Option
| Director | Woody Allen |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | August 15, 2008 |
| Where to Stream | The Roku Channel, Hoopla, Peacock, FuboTV, Tubi |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 80% |
In Vicky Cristina Barcelona, two American women travel to Spain, where they become captivated by a charming artist and the chaos of desire, jealousy, and relationships. The film is both comedic and dramatic, showcasing the talents of Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall, and Penélope Cruz as they navigate the complexities of passion and rivalry.
17 Fair Play
Finance, Ambition, & Steamy Romance
| Director | Chloe Domont |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | September 29, 2023 |
| Where to Stream | Netflix |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 86% |
Fair Play dives into the competitive world of finance while exploring the passionate relationship between coworkers Luke and Emily. Their secret romance takes a darker turn when Emily receives a promotion that shifts their dynamics, resulting in an engaging and tension-filled narrative that mirrors the power struggles evident in 365 Days.
16 Fifty Shades Of Grey
A Mainstream Alternative
| Director | Sam Taylor-Johnson |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | February 13, 2015 |
| Where to Stream | N/A |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 25% |
Fifty Shades of Grey is likely the first film that springs to mind for fans seeking similar experiences to 365 Days. Both trilogies follow tumultuous, often unhealthy relationships, with themes of control and obsession at their core. The narrative construction shares commonalities, emphasizing steamy encounters alongside a somewhat inconsequential plot.
15 Call Me By My Name
A Secret Romance In Italy
| Director | Luca Guadagnino |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | November 24, 2017 |
| Where to Stream | Max |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 87% |
Call Me By My Name unfolds during one transformative summer in Italy, chronicling the poignant romance between 17-year-old Elio and 24-year-old Oliver. This film centers around themes of self-discovery and the beauty of fleeting moments rather than the explicitness characteristic of 365 Days, offering an emotionally rich experience that will resonate with viewers.
14 Young & Beautiful
A Rough Journey
| Director | Francois Ozon |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | August 21, 2013 |
| Where to Stream | AMC+, Kanopy |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 79% |
Young & Beautiful provides an introspective look at sexuality through the experience of Isabelle, a young woman grappling with challenges as she explores her identity through sexual encounters, ultimately leading her toward a path of self-discovery. This film diverges significantly from the escapist fantasy of 365 Days, offering a more somber take on complex relationships.
13 The Girl Next Door
Cute And Funny
| Director | Luke Greenfield |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | April 9, 2004 |
| Where to Stream | Plex, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 56% |
In The Girl Next Door, a high school student’s mundane life takes a twist when his neighbor turns out to be a former adult actress. Their antics provide a humorous lens into romance, accentuated by the chemistry between Elisha Cuthbert and Emile Hirsch. It’s a more light-hearted option for those seeking less intensity than what is found in 365 Days.
12 Burning Betrayal
Straight To The Point
| Director | Diego Freitas |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | October 25, 2023 |
| Where to Stream | Netflix |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | N/A |
Burning Betrayal delivers a straightforward narrative with little pretense, focusing on a woman named Babi who embarks on a journey after discovering her partner’s infidelity. This film illustrates how chemistry can provide sufficient narrative drive amidst minimal plot complexities, making it an escapist watch that will satisfy the needs of 365 Days fans.
11 Friends With Benefits
Great Chemistry Between The Leads
| Director | Will Gluck |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | July 22, 2011 |
| Where to Stream | Netflix, TNT, TBS, Tru |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 69% |
Friends with Benefits stars Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis as two friends who decide to engage in a no-strings romance, only to find themselves tangled in emotional complexities. The movie balances humor and heart while exploring the nuances of romance and companionship, offering a delightful alternative to the dramatic tension found in 365 Days.
10 After
A Rough Relationship
| Director | Jenny Gage |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | April 12, 2019 |
| Where to Stream | Netflix, FilmBox |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 18% |
After explores the tumultuous romance between Tessa and Hardin, navigating love’s rough edges more than purely erotic content. Originally based on fan fiction, it has become a franchise in its own right with multiple installments that continue to enchant viewers with relatable yet dramatic dynamics.
9 The Voyeurs
A Different Sort Of Desire
| Director | Michael Mohan |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | September 10, 2021 |
| Where to Stream | Amazon Prime Video |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 44% |
The Voyeurs offers a unique twist on desire as a couple becomes increasingly obsessed with their neighbors’ sexual exploits. The film dives into themes of voyeurism and the complexities involved, creating an engaging tale that will delight fans intrigued by the blend of psychology and erotic tension akin to 365 Days.
8 Nine ½ Weeks
A Cult Classic
| Director | Adrian Lyne |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | February 21, 1986 |
| Where to Stream | N/A |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 60% |
Nine ½ Weeks features a tantalizing relationship between Mickey Rourke and Kim Basinger, exploring power dynamics and desire. While it doesn’t lean into explicitness as heavily as more modern films, it remains a noteworthy erotic drama that captures the intensity of attraction and obsession.
7 Below Her Mouth
A Same-Gender Affair
| Director | April Mullen |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | September 10, 2016 |
| Where to Stream | N/A |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 21% |
Below Her Mouth portrays a passionate love affair between a woman engaged to be married and another confident female character. Although it received criticism for its narrative depth, the film shines in its portrayal of raw emotion and steamy moments, making it a great option for fans of sultry stories.
6 Newness
Raunch With A Side Of Depth
| Director | Drake Doremus |
|---|---|
| Release Date (NA) | November 3, 2017 |
| Where to Stream | Plex, PlutoTV, The Roku Channel |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 71% |
Newness captures the essence of contemporary romance through the lens of digital dating, featuring a couple who navigate the complexities of an open relationship. With ample intimate moments, this film reflects on modern love and the emotional hurdles that ensue, offering a more nuanced approach compared to typical narratives.
5 Elles
A European Exercise
| Director | Malgoska Szumowska |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 9, 2011 |
| Where to Stream | Kanopy, OVID |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 22% |
Elles invites viewers into the life of a journalist delving into the world of prostitution, making it an introspective look at sex work. The conversations with her subjects reveal the interplay of sexual dynamics and emotional consequences, providing a contemplative experience that still maintains moments of sensuality for viewers intrigued by 365 Days.
4 Secretary
Best In Class
| Director | Steven Shainberg |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 20, 2002 |
| Where to Stream | Plex |
| Rotten Tomatoes Average Score | 78% |
Secretary offers a compelling narrative exploring a BDSM relationship between an attorney and his secretary, vividly brought to life by James Spader and Maggie Gyllenhaal. The film skillfully blends humor and heart, making it a standout example of portraying unconventional relationships with depth and wit.
3 Amar
Intense Love
| Director | Esteban Crespo |
|---|---|
| Release Date | March 19, 2017 |
| Where to Stream | N/A |
| Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score | 37% |
Amar centers around the passionate but tumultuous relationship of Laura and Carlos over the course of a year, as they choose to embrace love with fervor. The film intertwines deep emotional connections with explicit content, reflecting a modern romantic experience that is both intense and relatable.
2 Through My Window
Sordid Trilogy
| Director | Marçal Forés |
|---|---|
| Release Date | February 4, 2022 |
| Where to Stream | Netflix |
| Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score | 0% |
Through My Window follows Raquel, a teenage girl enamored with Ares, a wealthy heir. As their lives intertwine, the film captures youthful passion alongside bratty conflicts, culminating in moments that echo the fervor of intimacy seen in 365 Days. Although not critically acclaimed, it serves up both rumor and romance appealing to a young adult audience.