Somehow, this series took the world by storm. The first movie is a competently made film, made by people who were honestly trying to elevate a poorly-written book into a dark, sexy romance. Unfortunately, the author had a lot of creative control, and thought she had already made a masterpiece.

Why did this book need to be a movie? The book was bad enough as it is. Unfortunately, the movie is just as problematic, depicting an obviously abusive relationship. Plus, the movie deeply misrepresents the BDSM community.

Dakota Johnson is mildly sexy in a confused but playful romance that's ultimately about flirtation. The story ties Jamie Dorman's hands behind his back as an actor, and there are some painfully goofy moments mostly relating to how attractive Anastasia finds immense wealth.