Netflix fans have just days to binge watch 'steamiest' romance franchise

Netflix viewers have just a few days left to stream a divisive film franchise based on raunchy romance novels.

The streamer is set to remove Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed from its library this Thursday, July 31.

Based on E. L. James's bestselling novels, the erotic drama propelled Jamie Dornan to mainstream fame. It follows a sexual relationship between university graduate Anastasia Steele (played by Dakota Johnson) and young businessman Christian Grey (Dornan).

As their relationship blooms, Christian introduces Anastasia to BDSM sexual practices. Although sex takes centre stage in the trilogy, the story also delves into interesting themes such as working through emotional trauma.

Upon its 2015 debut release, the R-rated franchise received poor reviews. Rotten Tomatoes critics awarded it a sour 25% rating, with audiences rating it a more generous 41% score.

Critics described the first film as a "less than satisfying experience," but that didn't prevent the franchise from expanding.

The following films, Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed, were released in 2017 and 2018 respectively. They were similarly slammed by critics. However, some moviegoers were quick to defend the franchise.

"It's easy, it's fun, it's a little mischievous, it's got a story line... I dunno why people are so harsh," reviewed one IMDb user.

They same fan added: "I watch films to relax and switch off. It left a smile on my face at the end maybe I'm a romantic at heart, who knows. I guess I liked the ultimate love conquers all message."

Another simply penned: "Plain and simple, I loved all of the series.. beyond the pale sensuality with this undertone of wanting to find love.. I loved it."

Meanwhile, book blogger 'Natasha is a Book Junkie' shared a glowing review: "It [Fifty Shades of Grey] pulled off the almost impossible task of faithfully bringing these fictional characters to life and making them even more psychologically layered and three-dimensional than they might have been in the first place, turning my overall viewing experience into an absolute thrill start to finish."

Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy is streaming now on Netflix.