As Universal tries to put together the pieces for the sequel to the massive, $555 million-plus worldwide hit "Fifty Shades Of Grey," they’re going to have to do it without the film’s writer and director. And for anyone who followed the drama around the making of the movie, all they will likely say is, "Well, duh."
The Wrap reports that Sam Taylor-Johnson and Kelly Marcel won’t return for "Fifty Shades Darker," and it’s hardly a surprise. Taylor-Johnson clashed with author E.L. James throughout the production, and given that the writer wants to pen the script for the sequel on her own (while the studio is not keen on it), it’s perhaps not a surprise that Marcel also doesn’t want to deal with that situation.
So, where does this leave things? Well, Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson are contractually bound (ha) to return, though they are angling for more money (another item the studio seems reluctant to give in to), but the sequel will need a director and screenwriter before anything happens. So you’ll probably be waiting a while yet for your next fix of cinematic kink.
Meanwhile, here’s a bit of trivia from THR: "Game Of Thrones" star Emilia Clarke met a couple times with Taylor-Johnson at one point to play the lead in ‘Fifty Shades,’ but turned it down. "I’d done nudity before and was concerned with being labeled for doing it again," she said about passing on the gig. But what do you think? Was she right for the role of Anastasia Steele?
That is one choice I\’m glad didn\’t work out. Emilia is not Ana. She\’s too short and doesn\’t remotely fit the profile and the fact that she\’s too well known for a certain role. Plus seeing Dakota\’s comedic brilliance, Emilia has never been funny even in interviews.
As for the writer and the director, that\’s not news. Everyone knew they weren\’t returning. The sky hasn\’t fallen in. Like Twilight, the Hunger Games and Harry Potter all had different directors and all were successful.
The next director will be dealing with a bit more drama with outside characters. Christian and Ana have been established. The story now moves into a different direction. I\’m fine with it just as long as the soundtrack is just as hot as this one. Bring back The Weeknd too.