fifty shades of grey – We Are Movie Geeks

FIFTY SHADES FREED – Review

What does the FREED in the title actually mean (if you aren’t referring to the audience finally escaping this dreadful trilogy)? In author E.L. James’ world perhaps it’s in relation to series star Anastasia Steele gaining the strength in this film to bark back at her possessive boyfriend-turned- husband. But this idea of freedom is confusing since neither the author or director James Foley (now on his second entry in the series) acknowledge fully how she gains her strength. Is she freed because she has come to terms with simply following his orders or does she feel free in those moments of defiance? Once again, this is just another example of a film series that is just as knotty when it comes to handling romance as they do thematic elements.

Just like the previous films in this mishandled trilogy, FIFTY SHADES FREED might have been more successful if it would treat the overly serious proceedings with a little more levity and soap opera theatrics. Attempting to approach the material in a serious manner just makes the proceedings that much more painful to watch. From the preposterous Cinderella story turned thriller to the asinine dialogue, this final entry delivers exactly the type of climax we’ve been anticipating: a long, drawn-out date that doesn’t know how to stimulate the mind or the body.

But leave it to Mr. Grey to “know” what’s good for the audience. His controlling persona is taken to another level this time as he frequently chastises Anastasia for things such as wanting to take her top off at a nude beach in France, not wanting to change her last name after they are married, or even enjoying a night out with one of her friends without him. Grey’s dominance over her life extends past the bedroom into all aspects of her life. Why Ana or anyone in the audience is smitten with this manipulative, trust-fund brat is beyond me. Furthermore, it continues to paint an unhealthy portrait of a “dom & sub” relationship for the soccer-mom book-of-the-month-club readers who don’t know any better.

While the previous films aimed for steamy and sultry and fell somewhere between languid and prude, FREED leans more into thriller territory. Needless to say, their approach to tension and thrills is as disastrous as its approach to sex in the last two. The first hour of the film is snooze-worthy. The mystery of who is putting the newly married Greys in danger and why is met with the same eye roll that the actors are practically doing on camera. Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson can no more convince me that they believe in this material than me believing that the studio will let this franchise die if this makes another $500 million at the box-office. This isn’t award-winning prose, and now the actors seem to have finally realized this mid-sentence. Let’s just hope that they’re both smart enough to not get roped into another despite the book series coming to a close.

One thing that Foley is having more fun with this go around is the sexual fun. The scenes are a lot more playful this time around and have loosened a bit in its depiction of deviance and non-vanilla sex. A scene later on begins with sneaking downstairs for a midnight snack, and then slyly turns into a sexy and sticky exchange involving ice cream. Despite its inherent awkwardness, the scene ends up being one of the highlights of the film due to Foley’s calculated approach and the actors (finally) feeling more relaxed.

In many ways this might be the worst of the three films because it is an amalgamation of all of the bad elements from each of the films. It’s essentially three movies in one and none are good. You have a bad romance, a problematic bedroom-fantasy, and a boring thriller, all packaged together in one famously bad trilogy. That being said, FIFTY SHADES is still the most sex we’ve seen from a major film studio in quite some time. That’s not a bad thing if it is a step towards Hollywood and the general public to stop viewing sex as a taboo subject. But as a series of films offering sleazy and steamy escapist fun… it’s obvious that they didn’t come close to fulfilling our needs.

Overall Score: 1 out of 5

FIFTY SHADES FREED opens everywhere Feb. 9th

FIFTY SHADES DARKER – Review

As if it was actually possible, FIFTY SHADES DARKER may be even more problematic than its predecessor. And that might be the most shocking part of this tame sex-thriller. Trust is the main thing missing, and I mean this in many ways. Right from the beginning, Anastasia Steele attends a gallery exhibit and is instantly mortified when she sees so many photos of herself. Her photographer friend then comes up to her and apologizes for not asking or telling her she was going to be featured so much. The shades of dishonesty, manipulation, and jealousy only escalate from there. The film is centered on a relationship without trust, and director James Foley tries to distract the audience with sex so that no one can see the truth of the matter. One minute Ana is upset with Christian Grey’s jealous ways, while the next minute she easily decides to move in with him. Christian passive aggressively introduces himself to Ana’s male boss – “I’m the boyfriend” – while later berating her for having to go on a business trip out of town without him. The words “Be mine” have never felt more like a warning sign instead of a loving request. In the world of FIFTY SHADES though, the importance of control and trust – two keys factors in any dom and sub relationship – are irresponsibly thrown out the window. There’s a difference between being controlling in the bedroom and being controlling and manipulative outside of the bedroom fantasy.

Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan) is set on getting Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) back into his life. She’s apprehensive at first, but agrees to give him a second chance on the condition that he makes changes in his life – he promises “no more secrets.” As the two begin to find stability, shadowy figures from Christian’s past start to circle the couple, determined to destroy their hopes for a future together.

Jamie Dornan as the brooding billionaire delivers vacuous dialogue with neither a smirk nor a hint of personality. Relying heavily on her adorable smirk, Johnson’s mousy and naïve mannerisms give Ana a little more life than her muscular costar. Even though the leads are attractive and the sex scenes might be a little steamier, that doesn’t make up for the lack of chemistry between the two leads when they aren’t rolling in the sheets.

The dialogue is asinine and even occasionally silly (“kinky fuckery” is apparently a thing people actually say), while the story flaccidly limps along without any real structure. Characters exist and events occur without consequence, but there’s no forward motion or end goal pushing these pretty but blank characters along. It’s as if they exist to solely deliver the sex scenes to an insatiable audience.

At least the sex this time around might be a little more seducing for non “Grey-hards” (I might have just made up that moniker). The “steamy” acts that are at the center of FIFTY SHADES DARKER are far from the kinkiness typically associated with the world of BDSM; for those unfamiliar with the acronym, it means bondage, dominant, submissive, masochist. Most of what we see though is your standard choreographed Hollywood sex, but occasionally we are treated to some borderline provocative fun – especially in the form of some public foreplay. Whether it’s getting handsy in the elevator, discreetly removing panties at the dinner table, or attending a masquerade ball with some hidden guests (I will say no more), FIFTY SHADES might make some of the more prudish audience members blush a slightly darker shade of red than the previous film.

Much like the first film, the gender politics are incredibly unhealthy, and its portrayal of the BDSM world continues to be dangerously misleading to the uninformed viewer. Not to mention, once again, harping on Mr. Grey’s abusive childhood forces the audience to equate violence and abuse with the desire to be a dominant sex partner. Not all “doms” or “subs” come from a background of abuse, and this reckless insinuation that the book’s author presents is a misrepresentation of the heart at where BDSM relationships stem from. To say that the film’s view of sex creates a grey area is an understatement. FIFTY SHADES DARKER might have been more successful if it would treat the overly serious proceedings with a little more levity and soap opera theatrics, along with a little more knowledge of the subject at hand and a little more “kinky fuckery” (their words, not mine) in the bedroom.

Overall rating: 1 out of 5

FIFTY SHADES DARKER is now playing in theaters everywhere

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY – The Blu Review

“You want hearts and flowers? That’s not something I know.”

In Michael Haffner’s 2-of-5-Star review of FIFTY SHADES OF GREY here at We Are Movie Geeks, he wrote “….with all the script and story issues and its misrepresentation of cultural aspects within a sexual community, FIFTY SHADES is still the most sex we’ve seen from a major studio film at the multiplex in quite some time. That’s not a bad thing. It’s a dumb escapist sex fantasy…… Let the fans of the books enjoy their fantasies, and maybe if this GREY phenomenon continues to grow something better or at least more memorable might come along.” (read all of Michael’s review HERE)

I thought Michael was generous. I found FIFTY SHADES to be a bondage movie with little perversion, a love story with little passion, and because of the nature and reception of the book, a bad movie burdened with expectations it could not come close to fulfilling. I’m always up for some cheesy sleaze (like THE BOY NEXT DOOR, which was bad but relatively fun), but FIFTY SHADES was deadly dull. The opening credits were dull. The dialog was dull. The way the actors spoke (especially Jamie Dornan, but Dakota Johnson wasn’t much better) led me to believe they were seriously trying to put the audience to sleep. FIFTY SHADES OF GREY was more like fifty shades of lethargy.

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY is from Universal Home Entertainment. Available now to own.

Crisp, clean, and vibrant, the eye-filling 1080p AVC MPEG-4 FIFTY SHADES OF GREY transfer nicely showcases the lavish interiors and exotic exterior of Mr. Grey’s world. A warm glow and polished sheen lend the image a lovely richness, while excellent contrast and clarity enhance the sense of depth. Blacks are bold and inky, whites are stable and resist blooming, and fleshtones (and there are a lot of those!) remain natural-looking throughout the lengthy running time. Razor sharp close-ups highlight fine facial details well, and no digital doctoring seems to have been applied. Banding, noise, and pixelation are all absent, too. Fans of the film will be thrilled with this superior effort while everyone else will still be bored.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is a satisfying aural experience and nothing more. Surround activity ebbs and flows as so much of the dialog is basically whispered and the best-selling soundtrack is clean and clear, but this it’s hardly one to test your system.

Universal has been generous with its FIFTY SHADES OF GREY extras:

– Two Versions – included on this release are two versions of Fifty Shades of Grey:

1. Theatrical Version – 02.05.19/1080p/English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1.
2. Unrated Version – 02.08.29/1080p/English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1.

– Tease of Fifty Shades Darker – a special preview of Fifty Shades Darker. (1 min).

– The World of Fifty Shades Darker – presented here are character profiles and cast and crew interviews with director Sam Taylor-Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Marcia Gay Harden, Dakota Johnson, set decorator Sandy Wasco, production designer David Wasco, executive producer Marcus Viscidi, and costume designer Mark Bridges, amongst others. In English, with optional English, Spanish, and French subtitles.

1. Christian Grey Profile. (3 min).
2. Jamie Dornan Profile. (3 min).
3. Christian’s Apartment (9 min).
4. Christian’s Wardrobe (4 min).
5. A Rich Man’s Toys (3 min).
6. All About Anna (3 min).
7. Dakota Johnson Profile (3 min).
8. Ana’s World (5 min).
9. Ana’s Wardrobe (4 min).
10. Eloise Mumford (3 min).
11. Max Martini (2 min).
12. Marcia Gay Harden (2 min).
13. Luke Grimes (2 min).
14. Jennifer Ehle (2 min).
15. Victor Rasuk (2 min).
16. Rita Ora (2 min).

– Behind the Shades – in this featurette, producer Dana Brunetti, producer/series creator/writer E.L. James, Dakota Johnson, and director Sam Taylor-Johnson, amongst others, discuss some of the unique themes in the book that inspired Fifty Shades of Grey, the script for the film, the shooting of the more explicit sequences, the different shooting locations in Vancouver, the costumes and art decoration seen in the film, etc. In English, with optional English, Spanish, and French subtitles. (20 min).

– E.L. James & Fifty Shades – in this video interview, E.L. James explains how Fifty Shades of Grey came to exist, and discusses some of the key dilemmas Christian and Anastasia are presented with, the success and reception of her novel and the film, etc. In English, with optional English, Spanish, and French subtitles. (6 min).

– Fifty Shades: The Pleasure of Pain – in this featurette, BDSM technical consultant Liam Helmer, director Sam Taylor-Johnson, Rita Ora, and Marcia Gay Harden, amongst others, discuss some of the BDSM themes/elements (“soft” and “hard” limits) in Fifty Shades of Grey. In English, with English, Spanish, and French subtitles. (9 min).

– Christian’s Apartment: 360 Degree Set Tour – a large collection of stills for each of the areas listed below, which can be accessed from a fully interactive menu. (26 min).

1. Living Room
2. Dining Room
3. Piano
4. Kitchen
5. Foyer
6. Christian Bedroom
7. Christian Bathroom
8. Anastasia Bedroom
9. Red Room

– Music Videos –

1. Skylar Grey – “I Know You” (6 min).
2. The Weekend – “Earned It (Fifty Shades of Grey”). (5 min).

– Fifty Shades: The Pleasure of Pain – raw footage from the shooting of the music video for The Weekend’s “Earned It” in Los Angeles. Also included are comments from Abel Tesfaye and director Sam Taylor-Johnson. In English, with optional English, Spanish, and French subtitles. (5 min).

Win A Copy of FIFTY SHADES OF GREY – Includes Exclusive Tease of FIFTY SHADES DARKER

On Thursday, Universal Pictures announced the sequel release dates to FIFTY SHADES OF GREY. FIFTY SHADES DARKER‬ will be released on February 10, 2017 and ‪‎FIFTY SHADES FREED‬ will bow on February 9, 2018.

To celebrate the official announcement, WAMG is giving away copies of the film.

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY, the global phenomenon that grossed more than $500 million globally, comes to Digital HD Friday, May 1, 2015 and Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand Friday, May 8, 2015 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.

Based on E. L. James’ best-selling novel, the Blu-ray and Digital HD include an exclusive unrated version that features a never-before-seen alternate ending along with almost two hours of all-new bonus features that go behind the scenes of this year’s hottest romance.

Shy and unassuming literature student Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) finds her life forever altered when she interviews the enigmatic Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan) and is dazzled by the charismatic entrepreneur and his high-flying lifestyle. As the pair embarks on a passionate affair, Ana soon discovers that Grey has dark secrets and desires that will push her to the limits of her imagination—and beyond.

Jamie Dornan (TV’s The Fall, Once Upon a Time) and Dakota Johnson (The Social Network, 21 Jump Street) head up a talented cast that includes Eloise Mumford (TV’s The River), Max Martini (Captain Phillips), Marcia Gay Harden (Into the Wild), Luke Grimes (HBO’s True Blood), Jennifer Ehle (Zero Dark Thirty), Victor Rasuk (TV’s Stalker) and Rita Ora (upcoming Southpaw) in the wildly anticipated film adaptation of one of the fastest-selling book series ever published.

ENTER YOUR NAME AND E-MAIL IN OUR COMMENTS SECTION BELOW. WE WILL CONTACT YOU IF YOU ARE A WINNER.

OFFICIAL RULES:

1. YOU MUST BE A US RESIDENT. PRIZE WILL ONLY BE SHIPPED TO US ADDRESSES. NO P.O. BOXES. NO DUPLICATE ADDRESSES.

2. WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN FROM ALL QUALIFYING ENTRIES.

No purchase necessary.

Pre-order now: http://www.amazon.com/Shades-Unrated-Blu-ray-DIGITAL-UltraViolet/dp/B00NCDVVLY

BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO Blu-ray™:

Fifty Shades of Grey Unrated and Theatrical Versions
The World of Fifty Shades of Grey: Discover the artistry involved in creating everything Fifty Shades of Grey, including in-depth profiles of stars Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson, and the characters they play.
- CHRISTIAN GREY: Inside the world of Christian Grey and what makes him so magnetic and mysterious.
  - CHRISTIAN GREY PROFILE: Illustrated with film clips: Who is Christian Grey?
  - JAMIE DORNAN PROFILE: Meet the actor behind the iconic character.
  - CHRISTIAN’S APARTMENT: Living room, dining room, bedroom, bathroom and the Red Room

BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO Blu-ray™continued:

CHRISTIAN’S WARDROBE: A look into Christian’s wardrobe.
A RICH MAN’S TOYS: Christian’s cars, the plane, the helicopter, all of the recognizable items from the book, now on screen

ANA: Discovering Ana and what makes her so compelling and relatable.
- ALL ABOUT ANA: Learn more about the Ana character
- DAKOTA JOHNSON PROFILE: Meet the incredible actress behind Anastasia Steele.
- ANA’S WORLD: Beginning with her life as college student to her transformation into a woman living a life of luxury with Christian Grey.
- ANA’S WARDROBE: A look into Ana’s wardrobe.

E.L. James & Fifty Shades: A chat with the creator of “Fifty Shades,” discussing the history of the novel and the experience making the film. Follow the author at the Premiere screening in New York and come full circle as the film is released to the fans.
Fifty Shades: The Pleasure of Pain: A discussion with the BDSM consultant and a show-and-tell with property master.
360° Set Tours of Christian and Ana’s apartments including the Red Room
Music Videos from Skylar Grey, The Weeknd and Ellie Goulding
Behind the Scenes of The Weekend’s “Earned It” Music Video

BLU-RAY™and DVD BONUS FEATURES

The World of Fifty Shades of Grey—Friends and Family: Profiles of cast members including Eloise Mumford, Max Martini, Marcia Gay Harden, Luke Grimes, Jennifer Ehle, Victor Rasuk and Rita Ora
Behind the Shades: Follow alongside director Sam Taylor-Johnson, producers E. L. James, Mike De Luca and Dana Brunetti, actors Jamie Dornan, Dakota Johnson and the rest of the cast through the making of the movie, including a candid discussion about the most challenging aspects of the story.

FILMMAKERS

Cast: Jamie Dornan, Dakota Johnson, Eloise Mumford, Max Martini, Marcia Gay Harden, Luke Grimes, Jennifer Ehle, Victor Rasuk, Rita Ora
Directed By: Sam Taylor-Johnson
Written By: Kelly Marcel
Based on the Book By: E. L. James
Produced By: Dana Brunetti, Michael De Luca, E. L. James
Executive Produced By: Jeb Brody, Marcus Viscidi
Director of Photography: Seamus McGarvey
Production Designer: David Wasco
Edited By: Anne V. Coates, Lisa Gunning, Debra Neil-Fisher
Costume Designer: Mark Bridges
Music By: Danny Elfman

TECHNICAL INFORMATION BLU-RAY^™:

Street Date: May 8, 2015
Copyright: 2015 Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Selection Number: 61130687
Layers: BD-50
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen, 2.40:1
Rating: R for strong sexual content including dialogue, some unusual behavior and graphic nudity, and for language; unrated
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles
Sound: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1/Dolby Digital 2.0, Spanish DTS Surround 5.1, French DTS Surround 5.1
Run Time: 2 hours, 6 minutes/2 hours 9 minutes

TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD

Street Date: May 8, 2015
Copyright: 2015 Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Selection Number: 61130688
Layers: Dual
Aspect Ratio: 2.40:1
Rating: R for strong sexual content including dialogue, some unusual behavior and graphic nudity, and for language; unrated
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles
Sound: English Dolby Digital 5.1, Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1, French Dolby Digital 5.1
Run Time: 2 hours, 6 minutes

Website: http://www.fiftyshadesofgreymovie.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fiftyshadesofgreymovie

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fiftyshades

Instagram: https://instagram.com/fiftyshadesmovie/

Hashtag: #FiftyShades

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY On Digital HD May 1 and Blu-ray, On Demand May 8

The story of a searing love affair between a naïve college student and a billionaire entrepreneur, Fifty Shades of Grey, will have women worldwide planning a special Friday night in when the provocative love story comes home for the first time.

Fans of Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele will be able to have the ultimate at-home movie experience when Fifty Shades of Grey, the global phenomenon that grossed more than $500 million globally, comes to Digital HD Friday, May 1, 2015 and Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand Friday, May 8, 2015 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.

BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO Blu-ray™:

Fifty Shades of Grey Unrated and Theatrical Versions
The World of Fifty Shades of Grey: Discover the artistry involved in creating everything Fifty Shades of Grey, including in-depth profiles of stars Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson, and the characters they play.
- CHRISTIAN GREY: Inside the world of Christian Grey and what makes him so magnetic and mysterious.
  - CHRISTIAN GREY PROFILE: Illustrated with film clips: Who is Christian Grey?
  - JAMIE DORNAN PROFILE: Meet the actor behind the iconic character.
  - CHRISTIAN’S APARTMENT: Living room, dining room, bedroom, bathroom and the Red Room

BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO Blu-ray™continued:

CHRISTIAN’S WARDROBE: A look into Christian’s wardrobe.
A RICH MAN’S TOYS: Christian’s cars, the plane, the helicopter, all of the recognizable items from the book, now on screen

ANA: Discovering Ana and what makes her so compelling and relatable.
- ALL ABOUT ANA: Learn more about the Ana character
- DAKOTA JOHNSON PROFILE: Meet the incredible actress behind Anastasia Steele.
- ANA’S WORLD: Beginning with her life as college student to her transformation into a woman living a life of luxury with Christian Grey.
- ANA’S WARDROBE: A look into Ana’s wardrobe.

E.L. James & Fifty Shades: A chat with the creator of “Fifty Shades,” discussing the history of the novel and the experience making the film. Follow the author at the Premiere screening in New York and come full circle as the film is released to the fans.
Fifty Shades: The Pleasure of Pain: A discussion with the BDSM consultant and a show-and-tell with property master.
360° Set Tours of Christian and Ana’s apartments including the Red Room
Music Videos from Skylar Grey, The Weeknd and Ellie Goulding
Behind the Scenes of The Weekend’s “Earned It” Music Video

BLU-RAY™and DVD BONUS FEATURES

The World of Fifty Shades of Grey—Friends and Family: Profiles of cast members including Eloise Mumford, Max Martini, Marcia Gay Harden, Luke Grimes, Jennifer Ehle, Victor Rasuk and Rita Ora
Behind the Shades: Follow alongside director Sam Taylor-Johnson, producers E. L. James, Mike De Luca and Dana Brunetti, actors Jamie Dornan, Dakota Johnson and the rest of the cast through the making of the movie, including a candid discussion about the most challenging aspects of the story.

The worldwide phenomenon comes to life in Fifty Shades of Grey, starring Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan in the iconic roles of Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey. Ana is an inexperienced college student tasked with interviewing enigmatic billionaire Christian Grey. But what starts as business quickly becomes an unconventional romance. Swept up in Christian’s glamorous lifestyle, Ana soon finds another side to him as she discovers his secrets and explores her own dark desires. What results is a thrilling, all-consuming romance as Christian and Ana test the limits they will go to for their relationship.

FILMMAKERS

TECHNICAL INFORMATION BLU-RAY^™:

TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD

Website: http://www.fiftyshadesofgreymovie.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fiftyshadesofgreymovie

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fiftyshades

Instagram: https://instagram.com/fiftyshadesmovie/

Hashtag: #FiftyShades

Giveaway – Win FIFTY SHADES OF GREY Soundtrack

Who would like to win a copy of the Fifty Shades of Grey Original Motion Picture Soundtrack from Republic Records?

It includes 16 tracks from legends and superstars such as The Rolling Stones, Frank Sinatra, Beyoncé, and Annie Lennox as well as new and previously unreleased material from The Weeknd, Ellie Goulding, Skylar Grey, Jessie Ware, and more.

The Universal Pictures and Focus Features’ film, was released in theaters February 13, 2015.

You can order the soundtrack now from any of the digital partners and receive an immediate download of “Earned It (Fifty Shades of Grey)” from The Weeknd and Sia’s “Salted Wound.” Fifty Shades of Grey Original Motion Picture Soundtrack was released in stores and on all digital partners on February 10th.

Order the soundtrack HERE.

“Earned It (Fifty Shades of Grey)” from The Weeknd has already neared 5 million YouTube/VEVO views since premiering at the end of December. You can purchase “Earned It (Fifty Shades of Grey)” HERE.

Iconic four-time Oscar nominee Danny Elfman provides the original score for the film, while Dana Sano serves as the music supervisor.

Standard Edition Tracklisting:

“I Put A Spell On You (Fifty Shades of Grey)” – Annie Lennox
“Undiscovered” – Laura Welsh
“Earned It (Fifty Shades Of Grey)” – The Weeknd
“Meet Me In The Middle” – Jessie Ware
“Love Me Like You Do” – Ellie Goulding
“Haunted (Michael Diamond Remix)” – Beyoncé
“Salted Wound” – Sia
“Beast Of Burden” – The Rolling Stones
“I’m On Fire” – AWOLNATION
“Crazy In Love (2014 Remix)” – Beyoncé
“Witchcraft” – Frank Sinatra
“One Last Night” – Vaults
“Where You Belong” – The Weeknd
“I Know You” – Skylar Grey
“Ana And Christian” – Danny Elfman
“Did That Hurt?” – Danny Elfman

THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED

WAMG is giving away copies of the FIFTY SHADES OF GREY soundtrack to a few lucky readers.

ENTER YOUR NAME AND E-MAIL IN OUR COMMENTS SECTION BELOW. WE WILL CONTACT YOU IF YOU ARE A WINNER.

OFFICIAL RULES:

1. YOU MUST BE A US RESIDENT. PRIZE WILL ONLY BE SHIPPED TO US ADDRESSES. NO P.O. BOXES. NO DUPLICATE ADDRESSES.

2. WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN FROM ALL QUALIFYING ENTRIES.

*No purchase necessary.

Fifty Shades of Grey is the adaptation of the bestselling book that has become a global phenomenon. Since its release, the “Fifty Shades” trilogy has been translated into 51 languages worldwide and sold more than 100 million copies in e-book and print—making it one of the biggest and fastest-selling book series ever.

The trailer for the film, which has been viewed more than 100 million times, is now available to view on the movie’s official site.

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY is directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson and produced by Michael De Luca and Dana Brunetti alongside E L James, the creator of the series. The screenplay for the film is by Kelly Marcel.

http://www.fiftyshadesmovie.com/

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY Has $239.7 Million Global Weekend At Box Office; AMERICAN SNIPER Surpasses Past $300 Million

More like 50 Shades of GREEN. The phenomenon FIFTY SHADES OF GREY became the motion-picture event for Valentine’s Day with an estimated $81 million at the holiday weekend box office and earned $239.7 million around the globe this weekend

Opening in 59 markets, the film brought in a massive $158 million overseas, ranks fifth all-time among R-rated movies and is the biggest debut ever for a female director.

The film adaptation that had been the subject of widespread speculation and boundless curiosity, whose first trailer became YouTube’s most-watched movie trailer last year, is on the big screen playing at 3,646 locations.

The movie stars Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Luke Grimes, Rita Ora and Marcia Gay-Harden.

Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, the erotic love story from series creator E L James took audiences inside a rich and mysterious world that explores the complexities of male-female dynamics.

Read Michael Haffner’s review HERE.

KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE claimed the number 2 spot this weekend.

“In its second weekend internationally, the movie took in $23.1 million in 38 territories. This combined with the $35.6 million it earned in its North American debut gives KINGSMAN $58.7 million for the weekend and a worldwide total to date of nearly $80 million,” according to Rentrak’s Senior Media Analyst Paul Dergarabedian.

Based upon the acclaimed comic book and directed by Matthew Vaughn (Kick-Ass, X-Men First Class), KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE tells the story of a super-secret spy organization that recruits an unrefined but promising street kid into the agency’s ultra-competitive training program just as a global threat emerges from a twisted tech genius.

The movie stars Colin Firth, Samuel L. Jackson, Mark Strong, Taron Egerton and Michael Caine.

Read Jim Batts’ review HERE.

Read our interview with co-composer Matthew Margeson HERE.

Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Village Roadshow Pictures’ Oscar-nominated blockbuster AMERICAN SNIPER continues to make cinema history, crossing $300 million at the domestic box office today. The announcement was made today by Dan Fellman, President of Domestic Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Bradley Cooper and Sienna Miller, AMERICAN SNIPER has continued to fill conventional and IMAX theatres nationwide. It is now the top-grossing war movie of all time, Bradley Cooper’s biggest live-action feature ever, and the second-highest-grossing R-rated drama ever. In addition, it is the first Warner Bros. non-franchise film, only the seventh Warner Bros. release of any kind, and one of only 50 films in cinema history to achieve this milestone domestically.

In making the announcement, Fellman stated, “This is another extraordinary benchmark for an extraordinary film. Rarely does a film come along that strikes such an emotional and thought-provoking chord with such a wide audience. Congratulations to Clint Eastwood and everyone involved in ‘American Sniper’ on the film’s huge success, both at the box office and in the hearts and minds of people everywhere.”

“American Sniper is also showing strength overseas. With just 40% of international markets launched to date, the film has grossed an impressive $85.7 million, with many major territories prepping to release next week, including France, Spain, Japan, Brazil and Mexico.

Eastwood directed AMERICAN SNIPER from a screenplay written by Jason Hall, based on the book by Chris Kyle, with Jim DeFelice and Scott McEwen. Bradley Cooper and Sienna Miller star in the film.

AMERICAN SNIPER has earned six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Cooper), and Best Adapted Screenplay (Jason Hall). In addition, Eastwood was honored by his peers with his fourth Directors Guild of America Award nomination and also won the National Board of Review Award for Best Director. The film’s other honors include a Producers Guild of America Award nomination, a Writers Guild of America Award nomination, and a BAFTA Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Oscar Sunday is next weekend, February 22. Opening in theaters is THE DUFF, HOT TUB TIME MACHINE 2 and MCFARLAND, U.S.A.

The top 12 worldwide weekend box office estimates, listed in descending order, per data collected as of Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015, are below. (via Rentrak)

1. Fifty Shades Of Grey – Universal – $239.7M
2. Kingsman: The Secret Service – 20th Century Fox – $58.7M
3. Spongebob Squarepants: Sponge Out Of Water- Paramount – $44.0M
4. Somewhere Only We Know – Multiple – $30.0M
5. Jupiter Ascending – Warner Bros. – $25.0M
6. American Sniper – Warner Bros. – $20.1M
7. Big Hero 6 – Disney – $9.9M
8. Taken 3 – 20th Century Fox – $8.3M
9. Imitation Game, The – Multiple – $7.5M
10. Night At The Museum: Secret Of The Tomb – 20th Century Fox – $7.1M
11. Detective K: The Laborer’s Daughter – Showbox/Mediaplex – $6.2M
12. Paddington – Multiple – $5.1M

The top 12 domestic weekend box office estimates, listed in descending order, per data collected as of Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015, are below.

1. Fifty Shades Of Grey – Universal – $81.7M
2. Kingsman: The Secret Service – 20th Century Fox – $35.6M
3. Spongebob Squarepants: Sponge Out Of Water – Paramount – $30.5M
4. American Sniper – Warner Bros. – $16.4M
5. Jupiter Ascending – Warner Bros. – $9.4M
6. Seventh Son – Universal – $4.2M
7. Paddington – The Weinstein Company – $4.1M
8. Imitation Game, The – The Weinstein Company – $3.5M
9. Wedding Ringer, The – Sony – $3.4M
10. Project Almanac – Paramount – $2.7M
11. Black Or White – Relativity Media – $2.6M
12. Boy Next Door, The – Universal – $1.8M

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY – The Review

Some of the steamiest sex scenes in the history of cinema are often just that – a wild scene that takes you to an exotic place in that moment. A memorable sex scene though will have a lasting effect on the viewer not just because of the sensual imagery but because the characters and their journey are just as memorable. Take for example the movie INDECENT PROPOSAL. You only remember the sex on the kitchen floor or in the money-covered bed in Vegas because the performances by Demi Moore and Woody Harrelson are so intense. In many ways that is part of the reason why Hollywood sex scenes are often more memorable than just pornography that you can find online. Part of it has to do with our cultural desire to see celebrities exposed; to see them at their most vulnerable. But the other part has to do with “exaggerated sex” vs. “natural sex.” For many the “natural sex” of pornography is too immediate and too direct, while mainstream cinema can show well-known public figures in a simulated but elaborate fantasy. It’s the fantastical element that ignites the interest for many. Both shouldn’t be perceived as “natural” per say, but it’s the intent behind each that separate the two. Most pornography intends to show real scenarios or a form of fantasy based around reality, where the erotic forgery seen in films like BASIC INSTINCT, UNFAITHFUL, and many others is elevated in our minds because of the filmic characters and because these films give the audience more than just the illusion of actors being paid to perform sex.

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY is a partial failure because of this very fact. Even though Mr. Grey is a cinematic fantasy that pines to be remembered, the only thing about this dull and lifeless character that will leave an impression on you after leaving the theater is the image of his washboard abs. Jamie Dornan as the strong and silent, secretly brooding billionaire delivers vacuous dialogue with neither a smirk nor a hint of personality. I don’t entirely blame him for failing to ignite sparks from Kelly Marcel’s poorly written script of E.L. James’ TWILIGHT fan-fiction turned novel, but Dakota Johnson does a much better job with the material. She has a natural screen presence that warms up the cold and grey surroundings. In fact, her adorable and naïve delivery makes some of the more painful lines and jokes easier to digest. The chemistry between them comes and goes. Director Sam Taylor-Johnson spends far too long building tension, which I typically am not against. But considering how wooden and uptight Mr. Grey comes off in these early scenes, it’s a welcome relief once the couple strips off all the clothes and begins their sexual journey. That’s where Taylor-Johnson seems the most comfortable – not to mention why audiences will rush to the theater. The sex scenes are well done and tastefully photographed by Seamus McGarvey. The results are far from steamy, if not maybe a little too vanilla given what I was expecting. Isn’t this stuff supposed to be more racy?

It can’t be the clichéd plot that kept the attention of readers from all over the world; it’s far from inspired. Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) goes to interview Mr. Grey (Jamie Dornan) for the school’s newspaper one rainy Seattle afternoon. Ana immediately intrigues him. Maybe it’s because this shy and flower-print wearing student isn’t an attractive woman wearing a short and tight fitted grey dress like all of the women who seemingly run Grey House Enterprises. This attraction leads him to stalking her at the hardware store she works at, tracing her location after a drunken phone call from a nightclub, and showing up out of nowhere to a family vacation with her mother. And don’t worry ladies, he wants you to know he “doesn’t do romance.” This sharp dressed guy is quite the catch, am I right? Their relationship continues to blossom as Mr. Grey constantly pressures Ana to sign a contract so that he can have consensual sex with her… that involves rope, whips, and other forms of dominant role playing.

The “steamy” acts that are at the center of FIFTY SHADES are far from the kinkiness typically associated with the world of BDSM; for those unfamiliar with the acronym, it means bondage, dominant, submissive, masochist. Most of what we see though is your standard choreographed Hollywood sex. Unlike some directors who might show the two leads in a series of close-ups that obstruct what the viewer sees – creating just a flurry of skin tones and limbs – Sam Taylor-Johnson thankfully doesn’t try to hide either actor’s body. Their actions and movements are clearly visible, but again, what separates their trysts from your average sex scene would hardly make your grandmother blush. Blindfolds and ice have been used in steamier scenes before, and the peek into Grey’s playroom feels like just that. Different whips, plugs, and floggers can be seen but are hardly used. I know that this is just the first in a series of books so I can only assume these toys might come into play later on in the eventual sequels. In the meantime, I couldn’t help but see their non-inclusion here as Hollywood once again showing how prudish they really are.

We learn later in the film that Mr. Grey is nurturing past childhood memories of abuse through his desire for pleasure and pain. This desire wouldn’t be such a problem if the story didn’t try to place meaning or give an excuse for his actions by giving us the old “well that’s why he’s like that” story. Forcing the audience to equate mistreatment and abuse – especially criminal abuse since it was by someone much older than him while he was a minor – to the desire to be a dominant sex partner creates a grey area that many in the BDSM community will take issue with. Not all “doms” or “subs” come from a background of abuse, and for the “book of the month” soccer moms who come to a film like this with little to no knowledge on the subject, they are now exposed to the reckless insinuation that the book’s author presents. And this isn’t the only way James’ novel misrepresents the world of BDSM. Having Grey come across as a stalking and persistent shadow, constantly harping on Ana to sign the contract, gives off the idea that he will soon have all the power and that she’s this weak victim. When in reality, in most “dom/sub” relationships it is actually the submissive that has all the power. She would be the one who gives him the power; she would be the one to masculate him but only through her strength and willingness to be temporarily free of her own power – not the other way around. It’s a mutual respect and trust that goes beyond just a piece of paper with guidelines typed on it. Watch the 2002 film SECRETARY starring Maggie Gyllenhaal and James Spader to see what I mean. Sure, in the bedroom Grey is nice and concerned about her well being (as a dominant should be), but to show the relationship as one-sided as the film does could lead those interested or new to this sort of fun into a potentially dangerous situation.

In the end, even with all the script and story issues and its misrepresentation of cultural aspects within a sexual community, FIFTY SHADES is still the most sex we’ve seen from a major studio film at the multiplex in quite some time. That’s not a bad thing. It’s a dumb escapist sex fantasy, but if it is a step towards stopping Hollywood and the general public to continue to view sex as a taboo subject (especially compared to our acceptance of violence in our entertainment), than that may not be a bad thing. Let the fans of the books enjoy their fantasies, and maybe if this GREY phenomenon continues to grow something better or at least more memorable might come along.

Overall rating: 2 out 5

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY is now playing everywhere

JURASSIC WORLD, SEVENTH SON, TED 2, FIFTY SHADES OF GREY Super Bowl Spots

Universal Pictures unveiled a slew of new trailers during the showdown between The New England Patriots and The Seattle Seahawks. Containing new footage, fans were treated to big previews of JURASSIC WORLD, SEVENTH SON, MINIONS, TED 2, PITCH PERFECT 2 and FIFTY SHADES OF GREY.

Steven Spielberg returns to executive produce the long-awaited next installment of his groundbreaking Jurassic Park series, JURASSIC WORLD. Colin Trevorrow directs the epic action-adventure from a screenplay he wrote with Derek Connolly. Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley join the team as producers.

The movie stars Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Ty Simkins, Nick Robinson, Irrfan Khan, Vincent D’Onofrio, Jake Johnson, Omar Sy, BD Wong, and Judy Greer.

The Park is open on June 12.

In a time of enchantments when legends and magic collide, the sole remaining warrior of a mystical order (Oscar winner Jeff Bridges) travels to find a prophesized hero born with incredible powers, the last Seventh Son (Ben Barnes). Torn from his quiet life as a farmhand, the unlikely young hero embarks on a daring adventure with his battle-hardened mentor to vanquish a dark queen (Julianne Moore) and the army of supernatural assassins she has dispatched against their kingdom.

Sergei Bodrov directed SEVENTH SON from a screenplay by Charles Leavitt and Steve Knight and a screen story by Matt Greenberg, based on the book series “The Last Apprentice” by Joseph Delaney.

SEVENTH SON opens in theaters on February 6, 2015.

The Barden Bellas are back in PITCH PERFECT 2, the follow-up to 2012’s smash hit. The comedy is helmed by Elizabeth Banks, co-star and producer of Pitch Perfect, and produced by Paul Brooks, Max Handelman and Banks.

Starring Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Hailee Steinfeld, Brittany Snow, Skylar Astin, Adam DeVine, Katey Sagal, Anna Camp, Ben Platt, Alexis Knapp, Hana Mae Lee, John Hodgman, Jason Jones, Joe Lo Truglio, Reggie Watts with John Michael Higgins and Elizabeth Banks, the film hits theaters on May 15, 2015.

Seth MacFarlane returns as writer, director and voice star of TED 2, Universal and Media Rights Capital’s follow-up to the highest-grossing original R-rated comedy of all time. Joined once again by star Mark Wahlberg and fellow Ted writers Alec Sulkin & Wellesley Wild, MacFarlane produces the live action/CG-animated comedy.

The film stars Mark Wahlberg, Seth MacFarlane, Amanda Seyfried, Giovanni Ribisi, John Slattery and Morgan Freeman.

TED 2 opens on June 26, 2015.

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY is the hotly anticipated film adaptation of the bestselling book that has become a global phenomenon. Since its release, the “Fifty Shades” trilogy has been translated into 51 languages worldwide and sold more than 100 million copies in e-book and print—making it one of the biggest and fastest-selling book series ever.

Stepping into the roles of Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele, who have become iconic to millions of readers, are Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson.

Joining Dornan and Johnson in the cast are Luke Grimes as Elliot, Christian’s brother; Victor Rasuk as José, Anastasia’s close friend; Eloise Mumford as Kate, Anastasia’s best friend and roommate; Marcia Gay Harden as Dr. Grace Trevelyan Grey, Christian’s mother; Rita Ora as Mia, Christian’s sister; Max Martini as Taylor, Christian’s bodyguard; Callum Keith Rennie as Ray, Anastasia’s stepfather; Jennifer Ehle as Carla, Anastasia’s mother; and Dylan Neal as Bob, Carla’s husband.

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY is directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson

Tour Christian Grey’s apartment HERE.

The film opens on February 13th.

And finally, the TV spot for those loveable MINIONS.

The story of Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment’s MINIONS begins at the dawn of time. Starting as single-celled yellow organisms, Minions evolve through the ages, perpetually serving the most despicable of masters. Continuously unsuccessful at keeping these masters – from T. rex to Napoleon – the Minions find themselves without someone to serve and fall into a deep depression.

But one Minion named Kevin has a plan, and he – alongside teenage rebel Stuart and lovable little Bob – ventures out into the world to find a new evil boss for his brethren to follow.

The trio embarks upon a thrilling journey that ultimately leads them to their next potential master, Scarlet Overkill (Academy Award winner Sandra Bullock), the world’s first-ever female super-villain. They travel from frigid Antarctica to 1960s New York City, ending in mod London, where they must face their biggest challenge to date: saving all of Minionkind… from annihilation.

Featuring a soundtrack of hit music from the ’60s that still permeates our culture today, MINIONS is directed by Pierre Coffin and Kyle Balda.

In theaters July 10, the cast also includes Jon Hamm, Michael Keaton, Allison Janney & and Steve Coogan.

Win Tickets To The Advance Screening of FIFTY SHADES OF GREY In St. Louis

WAMG has your passes to one of the most anticipated films of 2015!

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY is the hotly anticipated film adaptation of the bestselling book that has become a global phenomenon. Since its release, the “Fifty Shades” trilogy has been translated into 51 languages worldwide and sold more than 100 million copies in e-book and print—making it one of the biggest and fastest-selling book series ever.

Stepping into the roles of Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele, who have become iconic to millions of readers, are Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson. The movie also features Jennifer Ehle, Luke Grimes, Rita Ora and Marcia Gay Harden.

Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, FIFTY SHADES OF GREY opens in theaters on February 13, 2015.

WAMG invites you to enter for a chance to win passes (Good for 2) to the advance screening of FIFTY SHADES OF GREY on February 11th at 7PM in the ST. LOUIS AREA. We will contact the winners by email.

Answer the following:

What does Mr. Grey do for a living?

TO ENTER, ADD YOUR NAME, ANSWER AND EMAIL IN OUR COMMENTS SECTION BELOW.

OFFICIAL RULES:

1. YOU MUST BE IN THE ST. LOUIS AREA THE DAY OF THE SCREENING.

2. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY has been rated R (Restricted – Under 17 Requires Accompanying Parent or Adult Guardian) for strong sexual content including dialogue, some unusual behavior and graphic nudity, and for language.

http://www.fiftyshadesmovie.com/

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