A pleasant surprise

Rating: 6/10 (28 May 2015)

I haven't read the books, and didn't see this film at the cinema, but I am aware of the the hype surrounding both and the debates they raised in the media. Before watching the DVD I read through some user reviews here on IMDb, and was curious to see so many one-star reviews.
I must say I was pleasantly surprised by the film. The heart of the movie is a relationship, a love story, between a troubled, controlling billionaire and an ordinary, romantic young lady. It's certainly not the typical love story you get from Hollywood, and there is plenty of tragedy mixed with it. But I was drawn into the story, and left wanting more. It's only the first part of the story, after all.
The subject matter is difficult, but the story is told with sensitivity and restraint. Some people were complaining that they felt no affinity with Mr Grey, but that is partly the point, he is a damaged person and he is a difficult man to understand and to know. For the audience to feel this, as Anastasia is feeling it, is an intentional and important part of the storytelling. But we do see enough of his inner battle, his fight to change, and Anastasia's fight to reach him, to develop an attachment to the characters. We can hope that he is not damaged beyond repair.
The directing, acting and cinematography were all great. The score is fantastic, tantalising and foreboding at the same time. Yes, there are elements in the plot which are not high on the believability stakes, but that's a criticism you could level at almost any film. It's a unique film that's hard to classify. See it with an open mind (which will be easier if you watch it alone), and you'll be challenged and entertained.