The intense, somewhat disturbing relationship between “Fifty Shades of Grey” characters Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele appeared on the big screen just in time for the holiday of chocolate hearts, rose bouquets and romance.  Ironically enough, as “Fifty Shades of Grey” fans know, Christian Grey does not ‘do’ romance.

That doesn’t mean he isn’t capable of wining and dining his lady of choice, it just has to be under certain circumstances, or better yet, certain terms.

For those who have been living under a rock for the past couple of years and are unfamiliar with the most recent sensation, the storyline of “Fifty Shades of Grey” has caused quite a stir across the world.  Anastasia Steele, a virgin, college student, enters into a relationship with the successful, charming businessman Christian Grey. The dynamics of their relationship center on Christian’s want for Anastasia to be his submissive. Anything he says, goes; he ties her up, blindfolds her, and performs a variety of sexual acts of his choosing, with props. For the most part, Steele is on-board.  Christian takes his sex life more serious than most, business contracts and all.

However, as with any storyline, conflict arises. While the story unfolds, we learn of Christian’s troubled upbringing and Anastasia’s desire to ‘heal’ him, but he resists her affection.

The story has sparked discussion and criticism.  People like the book for its appeal to women’s sexuality and their desires; however, critics call attention to the oppression and abuse described in the book. The tale is not for the faint of heart, as certain parts are quite erotic; however, as the old saying goes, “if you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen.” Humans are sexual beings and may choose to act on their sexuality-with or without the use of handcuffs.

The E.L. James novel describes the evolution of the couple’s relationship as well; it is not simply a porn novel. However, the writing is certainly not award-winning material.  But those who choose to read “Fifty Shades of Grey” do not reading it to appreciate English literature and quality writing- they read it for the entertainment.

In regards to the film, it left a lot to be desired. Perhaps I feel this way because I have read each book of the trilogy, and most of the vivid details in the book cannot be portrayed on a big screen.

For example, author E.L. James paints Christian Grey as a drop-dead gorgeous specimen, with a seductive voice and piercing eyes. Actor Jamie Dornan (Christian Grey) simply does not fit that prototype. In Dornan’s defense, this is a regular problem with any book-to-movie adaptation. Books allow the reader to imagine physical appearances and settings.  It is impossible for a movie to deliver actors and actresses who fit the imagination of every reader.

The on-screen chemistry, or lack thereof, between Dornan and actress Dakota Johnson (Anastasia Steele) is another point of interest. E.L James describes the passion and intensity the characters feel for each other with vivid detail; that detail was not transferred onto the big screen.

Christian Grey’s dominant characteristics in the book are crowd pleasers, but he appears more stalker-like in the film; not nearly as appealing.  Anastasia Steele’s lip biting, an important aspect of the book, is barely noticeable in the film.

For as much physical acting as there is in the film, the characters’ body language toward each other is awkward. Even during intimate scenes, the characters seem more serious and moody than passionate.   The movie follows the book quite consistently, which may explain the lack of fluidity throughout the film. Naturally, the book details character relations, which provides more conversation and context to scenes that would otherwise be confusing.   Ultimately, the storyline of Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele is not meant for the big screen.  People are better off spending their money on  a copy of E.L’s book than the movie adaptation.