Netflix viewers have been left horrified by the platform’s ‘most explicit movie ever.’
Viewers have been left stunned – and deeply divided – by the recent arrival of a critically acclaimed but unapologetically explicit 2001 Mexican road movie directed by Alfonso Cuarón.
Described by some as ‘absolutely disgusting’ and by others as ‘a classic,’ the film has ignited a storm of reaction online, with fans either lauding its emotional depth or decrying its graphic content.
Many unsuspecting viewers, lured by its art-house accolades and festival awards, were blindsided by the rawness of its content.
“Absolutely disgusting movie,” one shocked user wrote.
Another declared: “No, no. Double no. Absolutely not.”
A third went even further, warning: “This is way too much for Netflix,” while another added: “Wtf is this doing on Netflix.
“I can’t imagine what it would do to the sensibilities of unsuspecting families opening it for a mindless Sunday viewing.”
The film, which follows two teenage boys and an older woman on a s**ually charged road trip through Mexico, is now trending on Netflix, thanks in no small part to its controversial reputation.
Much of the backlash centers around the film’s candid portrayal of teenage s**uality, desire, dr*g use, and full-frontal nudity – themes that led to widespread censorship debates when it was first released.
Rated NC-17 in the US and slapped with an 18+ rating in Mexico (which the filmmakers famously challenged in court), the movie was controversial long before it hit streaming platforms.
Not everyone is outraged.
In fact, many people are praising Netflix for finally showcasing a modern classic that helped redefine Mexican cinema and launched international careers for stars Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna.
“A classic. If you haven’t seen it, drop everything and watch,” one enthusiastic fan posted.
“I’ve seen it many times, and notice something new with each viewing.”
Another viewer said: “This movie doesn’t disappoint. It’s s**xy as hell, and incredibly touching.”
Others were more direct in their appreciation: “I really liked this one! They show everything!!!”
One viewer did, however, warn that ‘patience is mandatory’ while watching the 2002 movie.
They noted: “Movie is packaged as an adolescent teenage comedy but transforms into something better.
“Patience is mandatory for the first hour with rewarding satisfaction at the finish line.”
In a more cryptic take on the film, another added: “Although the pace is buoyantly charming, Cuarón – and his screenwriter brother, Carlos Cuarón – never let the viewer forget that life and death go on outside the car windows.”
Despite the mixed reactions and reviews, the film has an impressive 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
And forgetting the polarizing reactions, Y Tu Mamá También continues to receive critical recognition for its layered narrative and political commentary.
Set in the final days of Mexico’s one-party regime, the film doubles as a subtle critique of class disparity, masculine insecurity, and the fleeting nature of youth.
The synopsis reads: “Two friends, Tenoch and Julio, boast about an imaginary road-trip to Luisa, a beautiful older woman.
“When Luisa agrees to be a part of the trip, the boys are forced to make impromptu preparations.”
With its inclusion in Empire‘s 100 Best Films of World Cinema and nominations for an Academy Award and Golden Globe, Y tu mamá también is more than just shock value, but that hasn’t stopped it from ruffling feathers.
The film not being removed from the streaming platform has come as a shock to some users, given how many great show and movies Netflix has removed this year alone.
Watch the trailer for Y Tu Mamá También here…
Y Tu Mamá También is available to stream via Netflix
