FIFTY SHADES DARKER

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After breaking off her romance with Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan), Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) takes a job in Seattle at a publishing firm. But Christian can't live without Ana and makes an aggressive attempt to win her back. Standing in his way are her new boss Jack Hyde (Eric Johnson) and Grey's own past.

More sex, dangerous situations and a hint of mystery make this high quality soft-core porn slightly better than
the first film in this erotic series. But that isn't saying much. Once again, inane dialogue and outrageous plot devices interrupt the bedroom fantasies. James Foley ("Glengarry Glen Ross") takes over the director's seat for this sequel and the next entry "Fifty Shades Freed". He does manage to deliver more of what excites the target audience and his cast is up to the task. Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson appear comfortable in their roles and there is intense chemistry in the relationship now. The supporting cast is good, but they just provide filler between the steamy scenes. Eric Johnson grabs attention as a possible romantic rival. Kim Basinger adds a small amount of tension as Elena Lincoln, Grey's former lover and now business partner. Some implied danger is supplied by Bella Heathcote as Leila, one of Christian's former submissives who wants him back. The "R" rating is earned for strong erotic sexual content, graphic nudity and language. Like most films in this genre, it is an acquired taste that is best served privately behind closed doors. For those who care, the ending leaves questions that will surely be answered in the next cinematic installment. The tortured romance of "Fifty Shades Darker" is just another big tease. (2 CAMS)



Rated R / Running Time: 118 minutes

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