Fifty Shades Of Grey – Blu-ray Movie Review

First, a quick explanation of the synopsis’ lack of an ending; there isn’t one. A sequel to this film is inevitable because after two hours, it just stops; and up to that point, there really isn’t a plot. The story is simply a look at two people and an unusual kind of sexual relationship.
If I learned something from watching Fifty Shades Of Gray it’s that just because a book is a best-seller doesn’t make it a good book. And making a movie from it doesn’t mean it will improve on the original. Of course we’re talking about a trilogy and the two additional films are already announced for release in 2017 and 2018. If the story continues to be as thin, I’d say it would have been better to combine all three books into a single movie.

If you’re still curious enough to watch it I’ll tell you that the intimate scenes are filmed with reasonable taste. Everything between Anastasia and Christian is consensual and there is no sign of abuse as some critics have stated. There’s no question it’s an adult movie as there are copious amounts of nudity. But thanks to excellent production quality and cinematography, it comes off without discomfort or awkwardness.

Besides the complete lack of a plot, I found the two principal actors’ performances fell short as well. Dakota Johnson tries and sometimes succeeds to portray emotion but Jamie Dornan can only be described as wooden. He finally shows a glimmer at the one hour and fifty minute mark when he raises his voice for a few seconds. I realize he’s trying to be mysterious but it just comes off as phoned in.

My recommendation is to rent this Blu-ray before adding it to your library. I can’t imagine watching it more than once.

The image is super-sharp and detailed with tremendous contrast and depth. Color is used sparingly in most parts of the film with a very cold palette; especially in Christian Grey’s luxury apartment. A few scenes show a nice natural warmth with saturated tones and a rich presentation.

Audio is clean and crisp but nothing special. Dialog is always clear but besides a few interludes of music, there isn’t much else going on. Ambient effects are used a little too sparingly and there is absolutely nothing for the surrounds or sub to do.

Bonus features are quite extensive. You get an additional unrated version of the film that adds three minutes of new footage. There are also many cast and crew interviews that detail every aspect of the production; and there is an interview with author E.L. James. Other featurettes cover the sexual themes introduced in the film and tours of different sets. Finally there is a teaser for the upcoming sequel “Fifty Shades Darker” and two music videos.