'Fifty Shades Darker' may be directed by James Foley in replacement of Sam Taylor-Johnson. The upcoming film is also revealed to be darker and more of a thriller compared to the romantic genre of its predecessor.
According to Deadline, James Foley was tagged as the next director to helm the follow-up for the blockbuster book adaptation since the series' first director will not be returning. He was also rumored to be the director for the third installment 'Fifty Shades Freed' as well. Foley was one of the top directing choices that included filmmakers Rebecca Thomas, Mark Pellington and Tanya Wexler. It seems that studio executives may have finally found a replacement for Taylor-Johnson who refused to return because of creative differences with producer and trilogy author E.L. James.
In another article by Variety, Foley will be working with a script penned by Niall Leonard - E.L. James' husband who is also a novelist. Production was reported to begin in the first quarter of 2016 and casting would soon begin as soon as Foley's deal closes out. The American director is known for previous work on films such as 2007's 'Perfect Stranger', 1996's 'The Chamber', 1992's 'Glengarry Glen Ross' and 1986's 'At Close Range'. He is reputed to get the most out of his actors, which means good news for cinematic newcomers Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan. He has also had quite the experience with thrillers.
According to Cinema Blend, 'Fifty Shades Darker' will switch from an erotic-themed film to a straight up thriller. Universal Pictures chairman Donna Langley hinted at that change during the annual Power Lawyers meeting. There was no other official announcement with regards to the second film's development except that it will introduce new characters in the series as well as more dark drama and nudity.
'Fifty Shades Darker' the second film in the franchise based on the bestselling erotic novels by E.L. James. The first film was a commercial success earning $569 million against a $40 million budget in the box office, according to Box Office Mojo.
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