Netflix’s latest foray into the erotic thriller genre has ignited widespread conversation, captivating audiences with its unabashed sensuality and provocative storytelling. Adapted from Sue Hecker’s daring novel O Lado Bom de Ser Traída (The Good Side of Being Betrayed), the Brazilian film Burning Betrayal rapidly climbed to the top of the platform’s trending list shortly after its release—drawing in curious viewers with its sultry premise and striking visuals.
Reactions have been intense and unfiltered. One social media user bluntly summarized the film as “80% sex,” while another remarked, “Every second, people are without underwear—no story, nothing except sex.” These candid responses reflect the film’s unapologetic emphasis on physical intimacy, which many have compared to the likes of 365 Days, Y Tu Mamá También, and Fifty Shades of Grey. However, some viewers argue that Burning Betrayal goes even further in its sensual exploration.
“Decided to watch, and it’s just really hot people having sex and riding motorbikes. Not disappointed at all, to be honest,” wrote one amused viewer. While for many, the film’s erotic appeal is its greatest strength, the overall reception has been notably mixed.
Some audiences have praised the movie for its boldness, celebrating the physical magnetism of its cast and the way it fully embraces themes of passion and liberation. Others, however, have expressed frustration with its perceived lack of narrative substance. “Couldn’t even get through the whole thing,” one viewer admitted, arguing that the film bordered on pornography rather than delivering a balanced romantic drama.
At its core, Burning Betrayal tells the story of Babi, portrayed by Giovanna Lancellotti, a poised and successful woman on the brink of marriage who finds her life upended after discovering her fiancé’s infidelity. Rather than succumbing to heartbreak, Babi embarks on a personal transformation—one marked by rebellion, reinvention, and a rediscovery of her own desires.
She dyes her hair black, distances herself from the traditional life she once knew, and plunges headfirst into a world of excitement and temptation. It’s not long before she finds herself entangled in a torrid affair with Marco, a striking and enigmatic judge who plays a pivotal role in her emotional and sexual awakening.
The film doesn’t shy away from showcasing intimacy in bold, cinematic fashion. From beachside encounters to spontaneous kitchen scenes, the lead characters often appear scantily clad or completely nude, adding to the film’s unapologetic aesthetic. Yet it is this very approach that has sparked debate: is Burning Betrayal a bold redefinition of erotic cinema, or merely excess in the name of shock and allure?
Regardless of where one falls on the spectrum of opinion, Burning Betrayal has undeniably captured the attention of audiences around the world. Whether it is celebrated for its fearless sensuality or criticized for its thin plot, the film stands as a provocative reminder of the shifting boundaries between erotic storytelling and mainstream appeal.
