Based on the eclectic group in the packed movie theater, it would appear that “Fifty Shades Darker” is a success. The second film of the “Fifty Shades” trilogy made its debut Feb. 10.
STARS 3/5
In comparison to the books, the movie proves to be subpar. Although the plot is better portrayed in “Fifty Shades Darker” than its predecessor “Fifty Shades of Grey.”
Actors Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson seem to incorporate their own individual natures into their characters’ already scripted personalities. For example, Christian Grey is supposed to be making himself appear more vulnerable in this film, but he isn’t quite as humorous or lighthearted as the movie indicates. Meanwhile, Anastasia Steele manages to stay a little more true to her character.
Regardless, it takes a certain level of bravery and confidence to play such popular and intense characters, so kudos to these actors. Those scenes cannot be easy or fun to shoot.
The first scene featuring Christian and Ana proved to be bold. Ana asks him to kiss her, but not on the lips.
Ana’s adventurous side is revealed because, as it turns out, she enjoys Christian’s kinky side. She’s portrayed so innocently, but her “inner goddess,” as she calls it says otherwise.
An intense plot line kept viewers on their toes, especially when it came to Christian’s ex-submissive. When guns appear in the trailer, drama’s a given.
The film reaches out to a large audience and that’s proven just by walking into any crowded theater. The underage teenagers, the married couples, the clearly dating couples, the single old men and twenty-somethings all venture out of their Netflix arenas for this movie.
Underage teenagers probably didn’t read the books, for fear of their parents finding them under their pillow or on their electronic device of choice. Even so, this scandalous movie is trending on Twitter, a platform especially popular with the younger demographic.
The movie, overall, was good, but it isn’t a movie to watch twice. It’s a movie to be watched and that is all. Don’t make it a point to find a Christian Grey. Don’t make it a point to be a freshly graduated college student signing a submissive sexual contract.
Watch the movie and think, “Wow, that was good, but I’m going to try to find a healthy and sort of emotionally stable relationship.”