‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ tops box office

“Fifty Shades of Grey” topped the charts during its weekend debut, bringing in $81.7 million.

The movie is based on the first book in E.L. James’ popular Fifty Shades books series. The books “Fifty Shades of Grey,” “Fifty Shades Darker” and “Fifty Shades Freed” have sold over a 100 million copies worldwide.

In the movie Christian Grey, played by Jamie Dornan, is a young and successful entrepreneur. The handsome billionaire is used to getting everything he wants – including women willing to become submissive to his secret lifestyle.

Anastasia Steele, played by Dakota Johnson, is a young literature major sent to interview Grey. Put off by his arrogance yet seduced by his charm, Steele finds herself captivated by Grey. As the relationship between the two evolves, the audience is offered a glimpse into the world of BDSM.

What we see in entertainment is often a partial depiction of real life experiences. For some, BDSM is a regular part of a person’s lifestyle while others wonder what in a person’s psyche motivates an interest in participating.

There isn’t anything specific to pinpoint which would explain the human psyche regarding sexuality explained Michael Hunt, psychology adjunct and professional staff member.

“Human sexuality varies from person to person,” Hunt said. “Sexuality is suppressed for some and open to others.”

Hunt thinks the movie is a fad, what culture sees as attractive right now, and that soon it will be replaced by something else.

Our culture has historically romanticized the dominant man and the submissive woman – dating back to the Gothic Era of Dracula suggests Amy Lucas, assistant professor of sociology and women’s studies.

“It isn’t new; it’s always been around,” Lucas said. “Fifty Shades of Grey” is based on a cultural script of internalized beliefs.”

Although there were many sold out shows, there are some who have no desire to see the film or read the books.

Sharon Hall, department chair of psychology and women’s studies, has neither read the books nor seen the movie.

“While I believe the author wished to convey the sensuality of being a sexually active woman, I don’t see the value of solely sexualizing a woman for entertainment,” Hall said. “The book and the film portray a young woman as the pawn of an oppressive man.”

Christine Paul, director of UHCL’s foreign language program, wonders what message the movie will send to the younger generations and whether they will look upon this behavior as acceptable. Although Paul doesn’t agree with the “stalking, controlling, manipulating and sadistic content” of the film and books, she sees a silver lining.

“It’s a dialogue opener and means for one to evaluate his/her own relationship,” Paul said.

Whether it is to depict a lifestyle, to satisfy a curiosity or to merely entertain, “Fifty Shades of Grey” became the must-see movie for Valentine’s Day weekend. The sequel is expected to begin filming this summer.

Coloring the grey: hawks remark on ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’

The Signal reporter Leah Won-Morales went around the UHCL campus to find out students’ thoughts on “Fifty Shades of Grey.”

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaAHqhka2Kg]

Broadcast reporting by The Signal reporter Leah Won-Morales. Video shot and edited by The Signal reporter Paul Tristan.