Virtual ’50 Shades of Grey’ Watch Party
Ok people. Fess up. How many of you are going to see 50 Shades? Now, of you, how many are going to go see ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ opening day? Who is going to brave the crowd during Valentine’s Day weekend??
I am hoping to. Which I find rather odd given my feelings about the books.
I’ve written a few posts about the whole 50 Shades thing on my other website for my pen name. I’m not sure I am quite ready to reveal who I am just yet…maybe someday. I am pretty open and I talk about it, but at the same time I am not blasting it on the Internet for people to find the connection. But, there are plenty who know who I am. That’s ok. If people find out, they do. If they don’t, that is ok too.
I’ve also written some celebrity and entertainment articles regarding 50 Shades over the last few years. Feel free to take a peak.
- Fifty Shades of Grey finally gets a release date (this was when it was set for 2014)
- 50 Shades Jamie Dornan is over tying up women
- Outraged fans start online petition over Fifty Shades casting Charlie Hunnan
- Arrow Stephen Amell refused 50 Shades: ‘Christian Grey isn’t interesting’
- Lindsay Lohan eyes lead role in Fifty Shades of Grey
- Is Ian Somerhalder in London filming Fifty Shades of Grey?
- Arrow Stephen Amell decides not to play Christian Grey in Fifty Shades
- Arrow Stephen Amell had meeting for Fifty Shades of Grey role
- Writer E.L. James: Next book won’t be sexual like Fifty Shades
- Matt Bomer : Too gay for Fifty Shades Christian Grey role (before you go cuckoo on me, read the whole article. I didn’t say that.)
- Arrow Stephen Amell is a candidate for 50 Shades of Grey
- Writing courses inspired by 50 Shades of Grey
- New Girl takes on 50 Shades of Grey
- Rumor Willis wants to play Anastasia Steel in 50 Shades movie
- Kristen Stewart : Fifty Shades creeps her out
Some might think I am a fan.
And then there is this – Writing romance vs. writing erotica
The books…well, I could go on and on about the books. I’ll try not to though. There are plenty of “why I hate 50 Shades” posts out there. Just Google them.
The grammar is horrible. I understand that was fan fiction which was thrown to the wolves for some quick publishing. The author is from the UK and she was trying to write it from a USA point of view. It painfully obvious that it did not quite work out. It left the sentences scrambled and often jolts you so hard you have to go back and read the sentence again. It was a horrible experience.
How many times did Anastasia say ‘Holy Shit’ or ‘Holy Cow?’ How many times was the word murmur used? (199 for those who are counting & that’s in just the first book) How many references were made to Anastasia biting her lip? Clamber was mentioned 21 times. The word grey used without the intention of Christians last name? And damn, grazing? Isn’t there another word for that? Anna frowns 124 times. Seriously, she’s gotta have some premature wrinkling going on. Inner Goddess. Scarlet. Rinse. Repeat.
Everyone’s biggest complaint aside from the grammar was James’s lack of a thesaurus. The books are extremely repetitive.
That did not stop me from reading the entire series.
BDSM isn’t for everyone. But with the release of the book it was hard for me to really watch the onslaught of hypocrites and judgmental folks that came out of the woodwork. The way the book portrayed BDSM is not how it is. Dominant people don’t go around beating the crap out of their submissive just because they have had a bad day. I think a lot of people missed the point of what was going on and only focused on how Christian has such this fierce dominant personality. They didn’t really understand his behavior from the dominant point of view or the mental point of view. I know the BDSM community had their own hangups with it, too. At least some of them did. Everyone I know was thrilled to have a book with this topic in the market; despite the inaccuracies.
But, I get tired of debating this. Unless you are in the BDSM culture you really aren’t going to get the full knowledge and understanding of it.
I for one am thrilled to see BDSM a little more mainstream.
It’s just like Sons of Anarchy. We all understand that motorcycle gangs are not really like the Sons and that it’s purely for entertainment value, right? Well, 50 Shades is the same. It’s ‘Twilight’ fan fiction for crying out loud.
Entertainment. That is all. Nothing more. All this stuff about mommy porn and how its ruining people’s lives..no. Something was wrong with the life to begin with. The book had nothing to do with it. It’s a cop-out and an excuse.
As you can tell I get my panties in a wad about this crap. People always trying to blame entertainment and media for their problems.
I write erotica. I understand it is not for everyone. But if you read romance, you’re basically reading vanilla erotica. I am ok with it not being for everyone. There are things in this world I don’t like that others do.
I don’t need to explain myself and I am not looking for validation. I’ve been writing it for many, many years. And reading it even longer. From Anais Nin to Lady Chatterley’s Lover by D.H. Lawrence. Anyone remember the book (later turned into a movie) The Graduate? You’ll notice the Robinson parallel soon enough. I mean, 50 Shades style writing is not new. Another tidbit of information, Lionsgate wants to remind folks of the original Mr. Grey. In 2002 James Spader and Maggie Gyllenhaal stared in the movie ‘The Secretary.’ For those who are unfamiliar, James Spader playes Mr. Edward Grey. Grey is a boss with a taste of BDSM. Gyllenhaal places his secretary who is also a cutter. The movie is being re-released and all new promo material is 50 Shades themed.
I don’t feel erotica over- sexualized people nor do I feel it is porn or addictive. But, hey, that’s my two cents. If my writing causes you to have some issues, I am pretty sure it’s not me that’s to blame.
Moving on.
To the actors.
How many of you had an actor you wanted to play Christian Grey and secretly voted in your head for that actor? Who was it?
Mine was Charlie Hunnan from ‘Sons of Anarchy’ for some time. I believe I had a small fit when I found out Stephen Amell from ‘Arrow’ decided not to do it. My first choice was Ian Somerhalder from ‘Vampire Diaries’ until I heard they were smashing all the books into 1 movie and that E.L. James wanted a lead that wasn’t so well-known and the lead would have to be young and be able to age a bit. I thought maybe Ian would not be a shoe-in after that. Darn.
When I found out it was Jamie Dornan I was thrilled. I had just finished up ‘The Fall’ and was patiently awaiting season two. Which is now on Netflix for anyone interested. I secretly went back and watched old episodes of ‘Once Upon a Time’ just to see him again. Jamie is definitely swoon material. I also have a mild interest in British, Irish and Scottish guys.
He’s a hottie and I have a feeling this moving is going to be incredibly sexy.
I’m so in love with the theme song by The Weekend. I am actually looking forward to the release of the Fifty Shades of Grey Soundtrack. I’ve pre-ordered mine from iTunes.
So, I have to know….who is going to watch ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ with me Valentine’s Day weekend? If you are, I would love for you to come back to this post and discuss it with me. If not, you are free to discuss your thoughts about the book, movie, leading roles…whatever with me. I promise, I don’t bite. 😉
Even if you don’t watch it opening weekend, I would love to keep this virtual watch party going. I’d love for everyone to have a chance to chime in and let me know how you liked it!
I think I am going to sit this movie out. I feel like this is one of movies that shouldn’t have been made because there is no way it could ever be as good as the books.
See, I’m the opposite. I think the movie is going to be better than the book because the screenwriter is a far better writer than E.L.James.
The vivid sex scenes in the book are most likely going to be eliminated or altered in the movie, though. Unless it has an XXX rating that I am not aware of 😉
Now this is a great argument Chrystal! People always complained about EL… And I guess I was just loving the books wanting to know what happened next to see the “awful writing,” but I can’t wait for this!
I thought it was a fun read despite some of the grammar annoyances and the repetitive nature. I’ve read worse. A lot of people don’t understand the culture and therefor all the uproar when the books hit. I get it. It’s not for everyone. And erotica was around long before this. I wish a better written book went mainstream, but I’ll accept this one for opening doors, too!
I’m not going to watch the movie. I read half the first book and put it down. It’s just so… blah.
I haven’t read the book and I’m not 100% sure I’ll see the movie. I’m going to be out of town for work the weekend it releases, so I definitely won’t see it then.
I don’t think these movies are for me LOL but I’ve heard only good things about the book!
I haven’t read the books yet, and I’m not sure that I will, but I love me some Jamie and would watch just to see him take his shirt off.
You need to get on Netflix and watch ‘The Fall.’ OMG..shirtless Jamie all over the place…YUM! 😉
I’ll have to tell my friends who love 50SoG about this Virtual Watch Party. I’m sure they’ll want to join in.
Thank you. I think it will be fun to discuss it with others.
I am absolutely going to see this movie. I have even convinced my husband to go with me!
My husband isn’t thrilled, but I told him that was part of my Valentines gift from him. LOL I am pretty sure he has a man-crush on Jamie , so we should be all good lmao
I just don’t know about this movie. i stopped reading the book 1/2 way through. WE shall see, I may change my mind.
The books grammar and repetitive use of words was rather annoying. I kept reading because I just wanted to know what happened. The Crossfire Series from Sylvia Day is a much better written series. But, since 50 was written by a top screenwriter, I have a feeling the movie will be better than the book; at least for me.
It’s quite nice of you to plan a “50 Shades of Grey” Virtual event. I hope you get a good attendance and lots of good shared ideas.
I haven’t read the books and have no interest in doing so either. Because the books are notorious for being so poorly written, I’m sure the movie will be better. However, since I had no interest in the books to begin with, that carries over to the movie. But I’m curious to hear from you what you think after you see it!
I’ve heard so much about this book. I might give the film a watch depending on the rotten tomatoes score.
I am for sure going to see this. Not opening day but I’ll see it. I actually liked the books and kinda cant wait to see this haha!
I am excited to go to see 50 Shades of Grey. My girlfriends and i are going to go out for dinner first.
I see you’re very excited about it! We don’t get to go out to the movies much anymore, probably won’t see this one
Well I have not even read the book I am not sure why but I have not bothered.
lol that the words were counted. 🙂 I haven’t seen this… I never read the books either. I’m so behind on trends!!
I read the books, but I didn’t notice the bad grammar. Maybe it’s because I have bad grammar too!
I sooooo wanted Charlie Hunnan to play Christian Grey and I’ll admit I was annoyed that it ended up being Jamie Dornan chosen for the part. However, the more I look at him, the more I think he fits the role perfectly!
I think the role suits him. Especially after watching him in The Fall where he ties up women.
I haven’t read the book, and I hear the movie comes out on Valentine’s Day. I’d probably wait for everything to die down a bit before going out to watch it, we’ll see what the reviews say!
I don’t think I’m going to like the movie. The books weren’t bad but I’m not sure how they can do the books justice.
I read the series, but will be skipping the movie. Just not for me 🙂
I can’t wait for this movie to hit theaters. I won’t see it opening day but I do plan on seeing it. I am excited to read reviews.
I have to say I was so disappointed when I found out Charlie Hunanan was not going to play the lead in the movie. I am just not sure I want to see it.
I was too. First I was dead set on Ian Somerhalder but then I was like …nah. He has the eyes but the age isn’t quite right. So, Charlie. I mean, I’ve seen Green Street Hooligans more times than I can count. I know what SOA Jax Teller looks like all cleaned up. I think you should give Jamie a change. If you have Netflix, give The Fall a chance. See him shirtless and his awesome Irish accents (I am a sucker for the Irish) might just make you a believer in him!
I wanted that guy from Thor to take the lead role. I mean, we’ve all seen what he can do with a hammer, so just imagine…..nevermind.
Oh yummy…I have mad crush on Chris Hemsworth. My husband has been a comic book nerd since he was a kid. I mean, there are boxes full of them in our attic. Some passed down from his dad. So they are old. He’s had his Captain America tattoo since he was just out of high school. People stop him all the time to talk about it, thinking he just got it a few years ago when the Avengers and Captain America appeared on the big screen. During that time comic book stuff has sort of grown on me. I watch Thor more often than I should 😉 I have a little Mjölnir that hangs on my wall. It’s a keychain actually. LOL And he bought me a purse a few years ago. Red. For Thor. With all these studs and stuff. Says its my Thor bag. It’s funny.
I think he would make a good Christian, but at the same time, I think it would typecast him in a way he doesn’t want to go. It’s just not very Marvel-ish.
Never read the book, but it’ll be fun to watch this. My cousin’s a fan!
I haven’t read the books. I may go watch the movie..
I have no plans to see this movie, but it seems to be a popular one among women
Hope to see it opening weekend. If I do will come back and tell you my thoughts
I think I will have to wait to see 50 shades of grey when it comes on DVD.
Oh no! I am such a geek! I actually haven’t even read the books. And if it weren’t for your posts I wouldn’t know that the movie is actually showing soon! Wow! Well thanks for letting me know. I will see if I can gather up a few of my girl pals and make an all-girls-night out of it!
I haven’t had a chance to read the book. I may take some time to see the movie though. Thanks for all the info!
I still have not read the book – I want to read the book first! Oh well maybe not! Looks like a good movie!
I haven’t read the book, I’m not happy to read it in the book, I’m happy to watch it.
I’m sure that a lot of those who have read the books like myself would be excited and interested on how the movie will come out. We don’t know yet when the opening day here will be.
I’m excited for this movie, but I think I need to see it by myself at home 🙂
I haven’t read the book but I’ve heard a lot about the story. I’ve already told the husband about us watching the movie. He didn’t seem interested after I told him what it’s about. We’ll see. 🙂
I think I may be the only one who hasn’t read the books. I don’t think I’ll be watching it, I guess I haven’t got into it. But, can see why women do. WOW!
I still haven’t read 50 Shades and I feline I’m missing out! I better get my act together!
EEK! I can’t wait to see this movie! I loved the books!
I actually want to see the movie. I am LOVING the soundtrack.
I can’t get the soundtrack off my Spotify! At least the songs that are available. Someone has a list of all the songs mentioned in all the books. Pretty cool. Feb. 10 is when the actual soundtrack comes out.
I won’t be seeing it at all. Did not care for the first book.
That was such a smart move to have that movie on Valentine’s Day. I learned a lot about the books from reading your post. I had no clue that the writing could be compared to the Twilight series. Not my cup of tea, but the movie sounds like something I will wind up renting.
It was originally scheduled for August. But then Charlie had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts with Sons of Anarchy. So it took a little longer. But, I think the Valentine’s release works out more in their favor!
Oh yea. 50 is Twilight fan fiction. It was getting so many hits on a fan fict site, someone noticed. Since its not legal to publish fan fiction due to copyright, she had to change all the names and such.
I have not decided if I am going to this movie or not. I did read the book, and most of the time that is always better. Maybe on a girls night?
I loved the books so I just know I’m just going to love the movies. Now let’s just hope my fiance feels the same way!
I’m dragging my husband. But, I am pretty sure he has a man-crush on Jamie hahaha
Somebody in Dallas is having a party about this. Really not my style – but very interesting topic. I’ve hear dso much about it.
Bobbi loved the book but seems to be a little leery about the movie. She is still interested in seeing it though.
Have not read the book, probably won’t see the move, maybe on Netflix down the road, way to many movies at the top of my list that I have to catch up. We moved to Florida so I am behind just watching my favorite series with the time change.
I feel like I am the only woman on earth who hasn’t read these books. I am so in the dark about it all. I heard others mention some of tote comments about the book as well. With all the hype leading up to it, I’m sure the movie will do well.
I am not going to watch the movie.. just the same when I read a book first, it’s hard to watch the movie and not give out loud opinion LOL