Texan Mosaic

by VANESSA DELGADO//Staff Writer

The happy, seductive couple stands near the water, as the dark sky is illuminated by hundreds of fireworks.

Christian Grey looks at Anastasia Steele with a look of pure bliss. She turns around and finds the most perfect ending to her night.

The theme of dominance and romance is prominent in the new film “Fifty Shades Darker,” luring audiences to escape reality and introduce themselves to a world of temptation.

The preceding film, “Fifty Shades of Grey,” was a smash in the box office and created a wave of media and fan excitement. Critics were ruthless, but the masses wanted more.

Even though the novels were very taboo, they were such a hit that fans pleaded for a movie to be released. Their prayers were answered, and the film did not disappoint. It was a very smart move to release both films so close to Valentine’s Day. Couples flocked to movie theatres around the country in order to continue the illustrious string of movies. Even though the books were geared toward women, even hoards of men have seen the movie. Most were accompanied by their significant other.

Many fans were concerned that Jamie Dornan, who plays Christian Grey, would not be returning to the trilogy, based on rumors that his wife was uncomfortable with the sex scenes. This rumor proved to be false, and fans were relieved by the news that Dornan would be returning for the last three movies. Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson, who plays Steele, had a chemistry throughout the first movie that would be hard to recreate without the original actor. Even though they are just friends off screen, they could have fooled the viewers with their passion in the films.

The first movie left audiences yearning to find out what happens next, but “Fifty Shades Darker” fell short of its predecessor. The movie was not as enticing as the first. The storyline, compared to the books, was not maintained, and it felt repetitive and rushed.

Anastasia Steele retained her witty humor and seemingly innocent character. Her sly sense of humor creates comic relief throughout the film. There are some dramatic twists that keep the storyline interesting, but “Fifty Shades of Grey” created high expectations for the next movie. The movie had everything, from the expected bondage to being held at gunpoint.

The untamable Christian Grey seems to avoid a serious relationship during the first movie. But he becomes reluctant to give that up in the second. He goes out of his comfort zone for Steele. Grey holds back on some of his urges, and Steele submits to sexual acts for Grey.

The have a balanced relationship, even though Steele will not give in to Grey. He proceeds to try to give extravagant gifts to Steele. Grey proves that Steele is the only woman he wants, with or without the presents, and the audience is pleased with the outcome.

The ending leaves butterflies in the stomach and a smile on faces as the inevitable occurred.

The movie was meek compared to “Fifty Shades of Grey.” But standing alone, it had a decent plot, and the twists were interesting. Nevertheless, I am looking forward to watching the third movie in hopes that it will be better than the second.

I give this movie 3 out of 5 stars.