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'Fifty Shades of Grey' Movie Trailer: 'Darker' Sequel Delayed? More Problems Encountered [Rumors]

The roaring success that "Fifty Shades of Grey" achieved with its first film has not guaranteed the franchise a the smooth transition towards its sequel. According to a new report, following the confirmed departure of director Sam Taylor-Johnson, filming for "Fifty Shades Darker" has come across other intervening factors. 

Variety has reported that British author E.L. James has been demanding more control over the second film's script. 

While its typical that following a box office hit, the team behind the film would stay on for continuity, this may not be the case for "Darker." After Taylor-Johnson's departure, it isn't likely that screenwriter Kelly Marcel will return for the second film. Insiders have revealed that studio executives and James have not reached an agreement over the details of the sequel. 

"The studio had always intended to sit down with the author after the film opened and discuss next steps, and that has not yet happened," said a spokesperson for Universal. 

While it may be advantageous for the book writer to pen the screenplay, given that James hasn't written a film script before, the publication highlights the time needed to edit the script may delay film production. 

Given this reality, we may see production begin in a year's time meaning the sequel will not arrive until the end of 2016 or the first quarter of 2017.

The inability to reach agreements with James, who has been granted a lot of say in film production, makes it highly unlikely the sequel will be out by Valentine's of 2016. 

Sam Taylor Johnson's Departure

It was rumored that Johnson and James didn't see eye to eye and has been confirmed the director will not return for the sequels.

"While I will not be returning to direct the sequels, I wish nothing but success to whosoever takes on the exciting challenges of films two and three," said Johnson in a statement, as quoted by The Hollywood Reporter. 

"Directing Fifty Shades of Grey has been an intense and incredible journey for which I am hugely grateful. I have Universal to thank for that. I forged close and lasting relationships with the cast, producers and crew and most especially, with Dakota and Jamie," added the director.

It should be noted that while the clash hasn't been confirmed, James wasn't mentioned in the director's statement. 

The erotic love story opened with $85 million domestically and since opening on Valentine' day, has gone on to make more than half-a-billion globally. 

As it stands, the sequel, "Fifty Shades Darker" has no release date, director and trailer.  


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