Fifty Shades of Grey movies in order
It has been over a decade since E.L. James self-published her first novel, Fifty Shades of Grey.
The book started life as Twilight fan fiction. But after reworking her story, E.L. James landed on something that became a worldwide phenomenon. Sequels followed, each as successful as the first book, and Universal Pictures rushed in to snap up the rights to the film.
Starring Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan, those films went on to become massive box-office successes. This article digs into the Fifty Shades trilogy in order of release.
What is the Fifty Shades series about?
It’s difficult to believe that a book series about bondage, domination, sadism, and masochism (BDSM) would be a mainstream success. But when you combine the sexual aspects of the book with the fantasy of meeting an attractive billionaire, it starts to make more sense.
Fifty Shades of Grey begins with an interview between a young literature student named Anastasia Steele and an entrepreneur, Christian Grey. What starts as a project for the naïve Ana turns into a desire to know more about this mysterious man.
Desperate to get closer to Grey, the college student starts digging deeper into Christian’s past. However, Grey has intentions of his own. Fascinated by Ana, the billionaire invites her to a photo shoot, beginning the dynamic of power that shifts between the two.
After a boozy night with her friends, Ana ends up in Grey’s hotel room. The night is unromantic, at first, with Grey holding Ana’s hair back as she throws up into a toilet. But soon after, Grey takes Ana’s virginity, and the two enter into a relationship that sees Ana descend into the rabbit hole of BDSM.
Though the first book ends on uncertain terms, its massive success prompted E.L. James to write two more books. These titles delve further into Grey’s past, revealing what led to the spark of sexual proclivities he has in the present.
By the third book, Ana and Grey’s relationship has deepened to the point where they’re starting a family together.
At its core, the Fifty Shades books are romance novels, though much spicier than the standard fare. This combination of heart and spice led to Universal Studios picking up the option of making films based on the books.
How to watch the Fifty Shades of Grey movies
If the premise of Fifty Shades fascinates you, you’re not alone. Let’s look at how to watch the films in chronological order.
Fifty Shades of Grey
The first movie in the series introduces viewers to Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey. Control and power are the biggest themes, with the film demonstrating how Grey is a control freak attempting to exercise his wheel on the girl to whom he’s attracted.
The film offers some insight into Grey’s manipulation. At points, he warns Ana that it’s best if nothing happens between them. It’s up to the viewer to decide if Grey knew this would only make her want him more.
Released in February 2015, the film grossed a staggering $570 million at the box office. Alongside Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson, it stars Jennifer Ehle, Eloise Mumford, Rita Ora, and Luke Grimes.
Fifty Shades Darker
Following the first film, Fifty Shades Darker explores more complex themes, such as Ana’s depression following her separation from Grey. Directed by James Foley and produced by Dana Brunetti, the film sees the two twisted lovers reconnect.
Only this time, the power dynamic shifts. Ana refuses to follow the rules and punishments Grey creates in the first film. But far from sparking the perfect relationship, this new arrangement causes Grey to struggle more with his past and deepest fantasies.
Another box office hit, Fifty Shades Darker, raked in $382 million. It also brought some new stars into the fold. Eric Johnson starts as Jack Hyde, with Bella Heathcote also taking a role. Kim Basinger has a supporting part in the film as Elena Lincoln.
Fifty Shades Freed
The final movie in the film series sets out to deliver the happy ending that viewers crave. Now married, Christian and Ana enjoy a long honeymoon before returning home. The pair have a child, with the movie series setting them up for a happy life together.
However, Jack Hyde, the former commissioning editor at Grey’s company, Seattle Independent Publishing, returns to make life difficult for the couple.
Like the other films in the series, Fifty Shades Freed garnered hundreds of millions of dollars at the box office. Many of the previous film’s stars reprise their roles. Victor Rasuk and Marcia Gay Harden return, as do producers Michael de Luca and Marcus Viscidi.
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It’s fair to say that the Fifty Shades series has never been a critical darling, though the first film received an original song nomination at the Oscars. But the films (and books) concoct a fantasy that appeals to the viewer’s most primal urges.
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FAQ
Where can I watch Fifty Shades of Grey movies?
You can watch the Fifty Shades films by buying or renting them from Amazon Instant Video, iTunes, or Google Play. They’re not currently available on Netflix.
Is there a fourth Fifty Shades movie?
There’s no confirmed news of a fourth film in the series. However, Jamie Dornan states that he wouldn’t return if there were a fourth movie.
Is Fifty Shades Freed the last movie?
Yes, Fifty Shades Freed is the last movie in the trilogy. There were rumors of a TV show about the books in 2015, though those rumors were unfounded.
Who is Christian Grey in the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy?
Jamie Dornan stars as Christian Grey in the Fifty Shades trilogy.
What is the release date for Fifty Shades Freed?
Fifty Shades Freed hit cinemas in February 2018.
What does Fifty Shades of Grey mean?
The book’s title implies that the relationship between Ana and Christian exists in a grey area. It’s elusive and complicated.
