'Fifty Shades Darker' Movie Release Date: Excitement Wanes Due To Production Delays [Sequel Updates]

The sequel to the world wide film phenomenon "Fifty Shades of Grey" is one of the most anticipated films but due to numerous production delays, could the interest in the franchise be fading?

In a published report by Movie News Guide (via Yibada), all the behind-the-scenes issues currently plaguing the second installment may result in a release date delay and notes:

"'Fifty Shades of Grey' fans are reportedly losing interest in the upcoming sequel 'Fifty Shades Darker' because of the never ending delays in the film's production." 

Some of the notable issues include the dissatisfaction of fans over the decision of British author E.L. James and Universal Pictures to hire James' husband, Niall Leonard, to write the movie's script. In addition, director Sam Taylor-Johnson has left the franchise and has been replaced by male director James Foley.

There are concerns that the change in leadership would bring about a disconnect between the two films as well as changes in the tone and feels of the film sequences. 

Relatedly, as reported by Parent Herald earlier, even though Foley has signed on to helm the film, a casting director has yet to come on board which means casting for the sequel hasn't even begun. "We're nowhere near casting. We haven't gotten into anything like that. We don't even have a casting director on it yet," said producer Dana Brunetti, per the News Everyday. For those who are unaware of the responsibilities of a casting director, they are the people tasked with selecting actors to fill the roles of key characters in upcoming films.

Some of the key roles that need to be filled include the characters of Mrs. Robinson aka Elena Lincoln, Leila Williams, Jack Hyde as well as John Flynn. 

Some of the names linked to the sequel include "Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice" actor Henry Cavill, vampire-extraordinaire Ian Somerhalder, Theo James of the "Divergent" series and other stars that include Charlize Theron, Cara Delevingne and Alexis Bledel. 

"Fifty Shades Darker" News & Updates

Lead actors Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson will be reprising their roles as Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele in the second installment. Latin Post also notes that Rita Ora is slated to return to the silver screen as Mia. 

There are also reports that indicate that after a number of fans were sorely disappointed over the conservative nature of the first film, studio execs are rumored to be working on a much sexier and edgier film to please its massive fan base. With a male director taking the reigns, we could see a transformation in the depth and tone of the movie. 

"Fifty Shades Of Grey" released over Valentine's made over $160 million. The sequel "Fifty Shades Darker" is set for cinema release on Feb. 10, 2017.