The sequel to “Fifty Shades of Grey” sees James Foley taking over as director after Sam Taylor-Johnson departed the trilogy amid speculations that she did not get along well with the novel’s author, E.L. James.
The second and final film were filmed back-to-back. “Fifty Shades Freed” is set for a February 9, 2018 release.
Most of the cast from the first film will reprise their role in the second and final installment. Brant Daugherty, Tyler Hoechlin, and Hugh Dancy join the cast as Luke Sawyer, Boyce Fox, and Dr. John Flynn, respectively.
Filming for the two films began in June 2015 in Vancouver, but was postponed due to delays in writing the script. Filming then resumed in February this year with some scenes being shot in Paris, France. Filming wrapped up in early July.
Last month, the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) gave the upcoming film an ‘R’ rating for its strong erotic sexual content, some graphic nudity, and language. The film was able to once again dodge an NC-17 rating, allowing more viewers to watch it.
Meanwhile, almost two months before its release, advance ticket sales have already started. The first movie swooned Valentine’s Day audience in 2015 with an $85 million opening weekend.