By Littlebells
When I heard about this book 50 Shades of Grey (trilogy), it was from fans who love Twilight and Twilight fan fiction. For those of you who don’t know what fan fiction is, “ It is a broadly-defined term for fan labor regarding stories about characters or settings written by fans of the original work, rather than by the original creator.”[1] 50 Shades of Grey, written by E. L. James, is actually a fan fiction using Twilight characters Edward and Bella. The fan fic was called Master of the Universe. Chances are you will not find this fic on the web because it was “P2P” (pulled to publish) March 2011. Hence we have the 50 Shades trilogy.
From what I have heard from those who have read both versions of her story, they are incredibly similar with all characters resembling Stephenie Meyer’s creations. It seems 50 Shades has not been revamped at all from it’s original story, hence there are many writers who are very upset that James is making profit off of characters who are not hers, but that’s another story for a different day.
Apparently Universal/Focus Features has purchased the rights for a movie deal, paying James an estimated $5M. Part of her negotiations is to have approval of script and casting.[2] So what is MoTU/50 Shades about?
- “When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms.”
- “Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires.[3]“
What this summary does not tell you is that almost every chapter is filled with very explicit sex in BDSM fashion where Grey is the dominant and Steele is the submissive. To have a film made would require a NC-17rating at the very least. Frank Santo from New York Daily News called it “pornography, plain and simple”.[4]
At the viral rate the ebook (popular way for people to not know you are reading porn) was passed by word of mouth, you can bet every reader will be very angry if they don’t get to see their beloved Edward/Christian and Bella/Anastasia get their kinky funk on.
The book has been compared to the film “9 ½ weeks” starring Kim Basinger and Mickey Rourke. For most Twilight fans and readers of James’s books, Robert Pattinson is the Edward/Christian they have pelvic thrusting in their imaginations. Perhaps they will want him to star in the film. (Please don’t Rob. Just…No.)
It will be interesting to see how soon the film actually gets a script, cast, and into preproduction. The only book series I can compare this new book phenomena are not even in the same hemisphere so let’s just look at how soon the movie rights were made after the books were published.
Harry Potter: published in 1997, released in the US in 1998/ filming began in 2000 and was out the summer of 2001. It took a total of 4 years, 5 films and grossed $7,706,147,978 worldwide.[5]
Twilight: Published in 2005/ released 2008. Three years total with one film remaining to be released. Total world wide gross as of now is $2,049,943,821.
Considering the ebook version of 50 Shades was released in June 2011, the competition between studios to get the movie rights shows that HW doesn’t really care what gets made as long as it makes a profit. If this world has any humanity left, this film will not ever be made; at least for the big screen. There is a reason why “Man” created pay-per-view.
Please join us for a discussion Tuesday 4/3/2012@7pmE/12UTC
comicreleaf
comicrelief2
Comic Relief
parisienne
littlebells
Lurker
ozzie20
Open Book
LIH
linkedinhollywood.com 
LB,
Thanks for making this topic visible for all of us to see. I wasn’t aware of most of this.
Love the new background, BTW. LB, you should feature this book on PtSS. lol j/k Ok, all kidding aside. I believe fan fiction can be a wonderful tool in helping someone cut their teeth in writing, help find his/her voice and get general feedback on writing style, etc. It’s easy to get fast feedback. However, that’s not what many of these pull-to-publish authors have done (some have & went on to publish original stories however). My issue with most of these fics that have been published (mostly by Omnific or TWCS) is that the story is largely unchanged and in most cases, the characters still have Bella & Edward physical descriptions and personalities. For example, Boycotts & Barflies and Trust in Advertising are identical but for the names in the books. From what I understand, that’s the same case as with Fifty. I read the fic version and what pieces I’ve read and from others who have read the whole thing, it’s mainly unchanged. Fifty Shades is Twilight without the vamps but with kinky sex. I’m actually shocked that a legit publishing house would touch something that’s previously been available for free (Google Master of the Universe & you’ll be able to find it).
I guess I wouldn’t have AS much issue with a former fic being published if the personalities and physical descriptions weren’t Bella and Edward. You even find Rosalies, Jaspers, Emmetts, etc in these books. There are some fics where the story is very out of character regarding the Twilight ones & B and E are really just place-holder names. Some people want to say it’s a case of other fic writers being jealous of James, but not, it’s an ethics thing. If she wrote something that was truly her own, I wouldn’t begrudge her success. Does that make sense? I’ll stop rambling now. lol
4String! hahahaha!!! You gave me a heart attack! hahaha and No, we will NOT feature this book on PTSS. ;)) hahahahaha!!!!
Great insight and I’m glad you commented. Yes, I agree that fan fic definitely can be a great tool in helping new writers get started and see where they can make improvement. I hope you can attend our discussion. I would love to know your thoughts about this as a film. *just puked a little in my mouth*
CR,
You are very welcome.
Hi Everyone-
I’m glad u all like the new background color for the site. LB great article and 4string u bring up some really great points why fan-fiction can be useful for amateur writers. However, my criticism comes from being repulsed by James (who is a women) devaluing women by writing porn and ripping off original work to make a buck. She is not concerned with advancing the literary world, women or herself as a writer by selling original work of her own. Instead she’s trying to capitalize on an established audience Stephanie Meyers worked for and earned through her sacrifice. What sacrifice has this author made? She is like a reality TV star that devalues art while exploiting themselves and others for money. Also, its sad women want to see this book come to the big screen.
A great documentary I saw last week entitled Miss-Representation of women in the media sheds light on how women are marginalized in the media. The statistics in the film are alarming from girls and women developing eating disorders, getting plastic surgery, to sexual harassment in and out of the workplace. I suggest women and men see this documentary it will definitely explain why women should not support this book being made into a film.
Another message the media brain wash women into thinking that after age 30 they have no value. So why did James make the character in her story a college student when she herself looks over 30? That minor change would have made her story far more original than it is now.
I don’t have issue with the character’s age. The guy’s age is 27 IIRC and she’s 21 or 22 and just about to graduate college. That’s not that big of an age difference. Though I’ve never been into BDSM I used to be friends with a submissive (the singer in my old band–since lost touch with her or I’d get her thoughts on this–I could rekindle contact to get her thoughts if you want me to) and it’s a consensual relationship. The irony is that this ‘sub’ in regular life is very outgoing, agressive, hard worker with her job, etc. Hearing things first hand from someone who’s into that lifestyle, it’s not a case of the dom taking advantage of a sub. Of course there are agreed upon limits between the couple.
At one of our shows, she’s actually wore her wrist-cuffs as an accessory. I originally just thought they were a goth style accessory until she corrected me. lol
Fascinating 4string! It makes me wonder how many people I pass or know that are into BDSM relationships. And yes, if both parties consent to a preferred sexual lifestyle, that’s totally ok by me. Whatever floats your boat.
She said that many doms are frequently the laid back/easy going person in RL that you’d never think would be into that and a lot of subs are the aggressive type A peeps. I found all of this fascinating from an anthropological view so I was always asking questions & she was always happy to answer.
I’m saving this video to watch when I’m more awake, OB! I agree with you 100%. It’s not the BDSM content or fan fiction that is the problem, it’s the laziness of the author, the poor writing and the lack of ethics that annoys me. I don’t read fan fiction but I’m sure there are many intelligent writers in that area that deserve the attention.
OB,
I’m sensing some passion in your words. 😉
LOL!! Oh! I think indignation is more accurate.
I will make sure to have the diamond encrusted microphone ready for you at our discussion. Just don’t throw it too hard when you are finished. 🙂 HAHAHAHA!
Can I choose the gemstone? If so I prefer emeralds.
It is being fabricated at this very moment and will be ready for pickup before 5 tomorrow. 🙂
LOL!! Did u know? Folklore suggests that emeralds will improve memory, intelligence, and enhance clairvoyance thus helping to predict future events. They are also worn to enhance love and contentment.
I want everyone to know the symbolic meaning so they can throw tomatoes if I fail to meet these standards. LOL!!
Emerald is my birthstone. 🙂
HAHAHA! Mine also!
🙂
Furthermore, if I may add. Why is James soliciting professional actors to play in her reality TV exploitation film? She should be going after The Jersey Shore cast. Let’s not discriminate shall we? Let’s keep reality TV material with reality TV personalities.
I love you for this post, OB! *applauds*
http://shelf-life.ew.com/2012/04/02/fifty-shades-of-grey-audio-clip/
OMG! OMG!! I think I just peed a little from laughing so hard! OMG! What the hell was that? And I love how the author reads Christian with a husky voice. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA!!!!! *wipes tears*
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.
.
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.
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I’m still laughing!!!!
I couldn’t even listen to the whole thing! HAHAHAHAHA!
I made it to :28 seconds. I want a medal. Better yet Nugget me and we’ll call it even. LOL
I hope she enjoys her fame while it lasts.
wow! A whole 28 seconds. I applaud u.
How does this drivel empower women? When are women going to start demanding more for themselves? Come on! Why can’t men and women be strategist partners instead of women aspiring to be stupid and waiting for a man to rescue them. Has this author even been to Seattle?
Oh! wait she did do research. I’m sure she’s getting all her descriptions of Seattle from watching the Twilight films.
ahahahaha!!!! Seriously, I thought I was listening to a comedy. I feel bad for the person who had to narrate this crap.
I had to start and stop and come back a few times. I could not listen to it in one full sitting.
Over the course of a day, I’ve listened to just past the one minute mark! At first it was funny, now it’s so annoying that I’d rather gnaw my own arm off. I still can’t believe this got a movie deal. I only hope it’s one of those deals that never get off the ground!
amen.
yes i know it was very taxing on me. LOL
Things when only change for women when they decide they want change. They have to change their images about themselves first.
Yep! ITA
notice the word, “share”. 🙂
you get half and i get half. 🙂
Thanks 4string for the explanation and offer to contact your friend for this discussion. But don’t get me wrong, this is not a condemnation against people into BDSM lifestyle. However, I’m more concerned with women who suffer with OCD and low self-esteem. Its sad women have become so obsessed with Twilight and can’t move beyond it. 50 Shades is being referred to as mommy porn? Are women over 30 being (pre-conditioned by the media) to desire teen/twenty year old female characters that are inferior to men? My point is why can’t a female character be over 30, older or equal to a man intellectually and or economically? Do we need to have a smart, rich, handsome man attracted to us for us to feel we have value? Both Twilight and 50 Shades don’t empower women at all, so this makes me concerned for women who have become obsessed with the books/films. Furthermore, women are the only ones who can change the way the media and men currently defines them. I will step off my soap box now.
I swear you and I are related. 🙂
Hi Everyone-
Here’s a great article that interviewed Dr. Drew about 50 Shades. I hope everyone can read it before the discussion tonight.
http://rt.com/usa/news/50-shades-porn-james-589/
I’m reading the second half of 50 right now. I’m *anxiously* awaiting the first half, LB. From what I’ve read I’ve busted out laughing so far. Perhaps this is showing the fact that I don’t like to be controlled but I can see how women who like to be submissive can find it erotic.
So 50 Shades is a comedy?
You would think, right?
did you get my email of the video?
to me it is.
TBH is so much hotter.
Yep! ITA why is that?
because the story does not revolve around an unhealthy relationship. Yes Tania and Shura are flawed, but they don’t use butt beads or bondage to solve their problems. Plus their love scenes aren’t hardcore porn. Plus her writing overall is like a gajillion times better. Really, there is no comparison. 🙂
yes but shura is still controlling. Tania is submissive to him.
Yeah! But they both care about what the other needs spiritually and want to know what pleases and hurts the other. Does that make sense?
yes that makes sense.
yes it does.
OH girl PREACH! Give me Shura any day! LOL
Hi Jess!
Hi Jess! Nice to have u join us.
Yay! jess is here!
Hi Everyone!
Hi!!!!
*hands OB mic*
testing, testing, 1, 2, 3…
Here you go! All polished and sparkly!
LOL!! cough! Ummm! Yeah! Well let me open up the floor and ask everyone. Did they read the article I posted? If so what did u think about Dr. Drew’s comment stating this book sets the feminist movement back 20 years?
I did and ITA. Although I think this book is the author’s way of getting the R/K sex fantasy because it will never happen IRL. IMO, that’s how this book took off. On the first page of the second part of the book i’m reading, Robert and Kristen pics show up and Kristen has rope around her. So imv, this has everything to do with the R/K fantasy of them being together. If its not going to happen IRL, it happens on the page.
* whistles *
Survey says “I’m right!”
ITA agree about women and their obsession with seeing R/K together. Why are women unable to move on from Twilight and these two? I have a theory but I would like to hear yours.
Pretty much for all the reasons you have mentioned, OB. They aren’t satisfied in their own lives and this is filling a void.
and living in denial that their is a void to fill. It goes back to what we’ve talked about regarding spirituality. There is only one way to find true happiness, and porn isn’t it. Living through the sexual lives of others, imagined or real, isn’t it either.
Applause!! ITA well said LB!
there. Gasp at my grammar!
I think and we’ve discussed this before but women want a man like edward so they put edward onto Rob. Would they Rob just by himself? Maybe not.
Kelsey grammer once talked about why his marriage to camille failed and he said something like “she wanted Fraiser not me as myself.”
Yes unfortunately SMeyer did a somewhat disservice writing a character like Edward.
I’m sorry but when u write a character nothing can compare to reality. Heres a story. I once knew a guy who knew I loved books so he went out his way to impress by reading two books at a time. Needless to say I was not impressed because he was unwilling to be himself with me. My point is for any friendship or relationship to work u can’t be afraid to be real with the other. And living vicariously through some characters in a book or imagining someone u never met is perfect is not real.
ITA *applause*
I loved the article and I think he nailed it. yes, there was a comment from someone who has read MoTU and gave a better synopsis of the story. But I’m sorry, both characters need help.
I’m glad u like the article. ITA both characters need help and if the women who think this is o.k. with this female character portrayal then they need help too. IMO!!
It’s a good article. I haven’t read 50 shades (and probably won’t) but if it’s like they describe it I agree with them.
Hi OB!
This whole convo makes me think of this song:
Now was this song made before or after she got physically abused by Chris Brown?
i honestly have no idea.
Well it was before. But she continued to sell it and make the video after the abuse. So ya go figure…
Hi Jess! *waves* My one brain cell remembers that it happened like that too. I’m sure it wasn’t long after the beating that it was released because I remember thinking it how uncomfortable and awkward it was to release it. So it must of been recorded before the event. However, I doubt that night was the first time he had ever done it, so…Umm, awkward and uncomfortable again!
Well did you see now that Rihanna and Chris are getting back together? Or is it they just collaborated on a song? It didn’t really explain that one way or the other.
I actually agree. Chris Brown has had very public outburst of anger even after the Rihanna incident. Like how he was asked a year about about Rihanna on the Today show, and got so mad about it he tore up his dressing room. Even broke the mirror, then proceeded to leave the Today show studio shirtless and barefoot in a rage. Ok that is someone who has issues. And she is beyond stupid to go back to it. JMO.
Ok, there are so many points to discuss, I’m not sure where to begin.
Let’s start with the topic of how this novel is altering sexual relationships. I’ve read many comments from different websites stating this book will change your sexual relationship with your significant other. I don’t disagree. But what happens to the woman who reads this book or books just like it, and her partner has no desire to re-enact the BDSM scenarios. Does she cheat? Does she leave him? And when is a sexual appetite satisfied? I can see woman eventually becoming immune to this, as in it’s not enough any longer, and they need more?
Ok, yeah let’s start there. 🙂 haha!
Have you ever seen the show called True Lives of Women?
There was one episode that featured a woman who was into BDSM. She’s married and has kids. IIRC, when she was younger she was abused as a child and so she became use to it. Her husband understands that and he allows her to go do her thing with another man.
Um that alone is “50 shades” effed up.
Wouldn’t you think seeing a psychologist to help you overcome those fears and emotions be a bit healthier?
Let me state, that I know someone who was abused as a child and would never ever allow someone to remotely do anything like that to her as an adult, let alone get off on it. I think that is a slap in the face to victims of sexual and phyiscal abuse. And just so all our readers know, that is solely my opinion.
well of course but i guess she likes being abused.
and i apologize but the show is called the secret lives of women.
I believe there are some deeper issues not being discussed or dealt with. I think these women are not fulfilled or challenging themselves personally and are abusing sex, gossip, food anything extreme to help them feel alive. However, I think they are in denial and confusing abuse for love. Spoiler alert. It’s revealed that Christian was sexually abused in the book.
I know. 🙂 I know that there are many healthier options out there to express emotion but i think people get used to the abuse or whatever their going through. Maybe they are so afraid of the change that will happen if they seek help and that makes them stay in the cycle.
Yeah! But being afraid to change is a sign u have control issues. Meaning you become obsessive about controlling things outside of u but internally u are spiritually/physically/mentally out of control. I think these women who like 50 shades want to be dominated because they feel they have value. When are women going to wake up?
Never. We are the dreamers of dreams.
LOL!! Touche!
lol 🙂
Hi all!
i must say this is a very interesting article LB and the discussion is going to be great I think. I don’t think I’ll be adding anything usefull though as I’m running on one brain cell tonight! So expect lot’s of “I agree” and “lol”! 🙂
Hi Ozzie!
I’m just happy you are here. 🙂 Jump in when you can.
Hi Ozzie!
Hi Ozzie!
Nice to see u. Your one brain cell is quite spectacular so don’t let that stop u.
Hi LB, Paris and OB! 🙂
I just want to be clear with our readers that we are not knocking a BDSM lifestyle. But to use it to fill voids and push past memories under the rug is not healthy.
Ok, now how do you see this coming about as a film.
I just can’t imagine how it will be done without being extremely gritty. Yes, I realize their is a storyline (somewhere), but most of the allure of the book is the porn. Sooooo, why not just go to pay-per-view and make a high quality porn. Everyone is going to want to hear the lame dialogue between the two when they are bumping, grinding, clamping, and flogging so, you know, put it on cable.
I just can’t see it doing well at the box office.
Seriously, what rating would it get if it were to stay true to the story? NC-17 don’t last long at theaters or get to most of them.
You read my mind. Vivid Entertainment should have optioned her first.
RIGHT!?!?
RIGHT!
I agree LB!
ITA This should be a porn video. The dialogue and plot is perfect for it.
I CAN’T KEEP UP!!!! HAHAHAHAHA!!!! 🙂
you’re doing just fine!
LB nice article! I always love reading your articles too! There is alot to catch up on! What is the convo goin at the moment??
hahahaha!!! pick one! It’s a roundtable. 🙂
What I found interesting in my research is that most readers enjoyed that they could read this on their kindles so no one would know what they were reading? Ashamed are we? A dirty little secret? So now that it’s in paperback and trending, if someone sees you reading it they will know you are reading hardcore porn.
Thoughts, ladies?
If women are going to read it why be ashamed of it. I’ve read part of it. Do i find it erotic? Nope. I find it hysterical. TBH on the other hand…….
Oh I would be ashamed to read it! The hardcore porn would not be the part I was ashamed of though…LOL!
HAHAHA I totally agree!
you would be ashamed that you read it? Its like reading a 4th grade paper tbh.
It’s literally a Slapstick Comedy. LOL!! Sorry lame joke!
LOL!
No it’s true! And just listening to that sound bite makes the writing so much worse! Who the heck talks like that? Apparently I don’t use enough colorful adjectives in my daily conversations. I will have to contemplate this as my long, wispy fingers gently tap against the white sterile keypad…sigh…
LB STOP! LOL You need mood music. 🙂
or
This is great! Don’t give them ideas LB!!LOL!
*gigglesnort* I liked it, OB!
If listening to it made me want to gnaw a limb off, I imagine if I read it, my brain would file for divorce from my body! I’m not a literature snob, I’m very far from that, but I like my books more stimulating for my brain. Therefore, I’d be very ashamed of myself if I read it, lol!
Ahh! Thanks Oz! However, I still better keep my day job.
So would u be ashamed u got caught reading it or ashamed if u read it after suddenly realizing u were missing a limb?
I haven’t read anything on it personally. Are the scenes just run on sentence’s with dirty words slapped in? Because the way you guys are describing it, it sounds funny in the way Twilight tried SO hard NOT to be.. LIke awww she wrote a story.. How sweet.. Lets put it on the fridge so everyone can see what a GREAT job she did! Like that?
YEP!
Oh Jess, it’s exactly like that and I know very little of it! Paris, you’re reading it right? I salute you’re bravery! Keep a good book near you so when you are finished you can dive into that and your brain won’t revolt, lol!
And it is for sure BDSM like extreme like that? And hey whatever floats your boat with the BDSM lifestyle. But does it stay true to what the lifestyle en tales? Because for a small town house wife like her it seems highly unlikely. Or not depending?
to be honest I would read that sort of “Erotica” in the privacy of my own home. Like away from the kiddies and hubby. On a kindle in public is a bit much. I mean it comes with a dark screen and a off button you can push so fast it looks like you are really reading the Odyssey! And hey if that’s your think so be it. But why would you want to get turned on in public? I mean really?? That is the equivalent of men going to a strip club with a bunch of guy friends. I’m not a guy and I will never get it but it seems sort f awkward. Getting that turned on visually and then seeing your best friend giving you the thumbs up. Ok that creepy. But with woman we are more turned on mentally hence erotic stories. So you are reading around people say at a park or library and a lady with her 3 kids sits down next to you. Awkward! Me I couldn’t do it… But there I go rambling again.. Sorry LOL
I totally agree with you Jess. That was another thought I had when I was thinking about people being embarrassed to be seen with it. Where the hell are these people reading it?!!!
Well I heard there is this dark alley somewhere in Seattle where all the ladies who read this flock just to read their dirty birdy story in private! The place is really exclusive! Seriously it is like Diagon Ally.. Only you have to stroke the wall to have it open for you.. True facts!
LOL!! I like u Jess! HAHAHAHA!!
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!! Dirty birdy story!!!!!
Oh you are killing me with laughter here, Jess! Bravo!
hahaha!!! What you don’t want your girlfriends giving you the thumbs up sign when they can tell your magic button is…nevermind….
Ladies i’m trying to eat. I’d like not to choke please.
I apologize if my comment is wrong at the moment.
Hahahaha! So true LB!
I see your point Jess. I don’t mind seeing sex or reading about it in public. I take more offense to porn because its not artistic. I’ve been to many art openings that were far racier and erotic then strip clubs and porno videos. However, they provoked thought and discussion instead of laughter.
Cashier at B and N: Sooooo, you like porn…
Woman: Oh no, no, no! This is for my…uh…friend..I mean niece….I mean…what do I owe you?
LOL!! or I need a price check on this porn book.
Woman: Wait, what??? It’s porn!
Cashier: I can put it back for you if you don’t want it.
Woman: No, no, I don’t want to waste your time. Just ring it up.
The kid standing behind her in line recognizes that’s his 3rd grade teacher and begins to introduce her to his parents.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!!!!!! I would DIE!
Ladies,
thank you for a fantastic discussion. We will have to wait and see what happens.
I need to go for the evening. Have a wonderful night! 🙂
jess, thank you for joining us. You slay me!
Great discussion and article LB. Take care and Goodnight!
I’m going to go for the evening as well. Take care all!
I knew it would be a fantastic discussion. I better go and rest that one grey cell! Night all! 🙂
Everyone,
I’m going to go for the evening! I’ll ttyl!
Sorry I couldn’t join the discussion. We were away all day. I DLed the sample (66 pages) of 50 Shades due to curiosity–I’d never actually buy it. Of course I hadn’t gotten to any racy parts yet, but from what I’ve read, it’s identical to the fic minus the names. Bella, uh, I mean Ana has blue eyes instead of brown, but otherwise she’s physically Bella. The same with Edward/Christian. He’s got copper colored hair but with gray eyes. Of course he’s got gray eyes. 😉 Her friend Katherine is a strawberry blonde which isn’t too far off of Rosalie’s pale blonde and she’s described as stunning that even when she’s laid up on the couch with the flu, she still looks amazing. I haven’t gotten to the physical descriptions of ‘Jasper,’ ‘Emmett’ or ‘Alice.’
No problem 4string! We hope you had a wonderful day. It’s always a pleasure when you stop by. 🙂
Thank you for the descriptions. Keep us posted!
Hi 4string
Sorry u could not be at the discussion. I think u and Paris deserve a medal for reading the book. I applaud u both. Come back and give us your reviews after u finish.
I only read the free sample. 🙂 I wouldn’t pay for it.
Ah! Gotcha….I still think u deserve a medal for reading the free sample. Take a bow…..LOL!
Meant to post these in the discussion:
budget: $17 M
US gross: $6,734,844
budget: $4 M
worldwide gross: $9,304,609
So if they make 50 Shades a dark comedy, it could make money. Or maybe porn for women is higher than when 9 1/2 Weeks was made and it could do well as a drama. Whatever…
Just watching the trailers I lost braincells. Going to go read a book on neurosurgery.
9 1/2 weeks was a movie that I didn’t really like. Now not because of the sex or the plot. It was the acting. Micky Rorke hey he has his moments. But in that movie meh. And don’t even get me started on Kim Basinger. If the movie is anything like that then wow…
Christian penetrates the suburbs. lol
OMG!!! hahahahaha!!!!!
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/book-50-shades-grey-flies-off-shelves-heats-15909037
Um…I…seriously…where do I begin? After watching this and then reading the descriptions of the characters that 4string gave us, my question is WHERE ARE THE ETHICS????
Aside from all of the sociological upheaval or specifically the obvious mental health and psychological dysfunction unearthed by FSOG, what I don’t understand is how the copyright infringement aspect of this event currently seems to be hidden. Copyright infringement seems to be the elephant that hasn’t been unearthed in the room yet. Thank goodness LB that you made reference to it.
It would take two other articles to discuss all of the great Hollywood works and how all of which have been challenged by others who supposedly influenced or provoked the well-known film. Yet everyone easily sees the Twilight connection with FSOG. Fan fiction actually isn’t new, but rarely is it dignified by being published or bought by major studios.
I can only image that Summit and Stephanie Myers are waiting in the wings to strike. To speak too soon would actually create controversy that would further promote this sad and pitiful enterprise. Stunt masters themselves, though it is not clear it will ever happen, it seems that these producers are waiting for this hen to get fat enough to be worth the slaughter.
Preoccupied, if I’m repeating things that have already been said I’m truly sorry.
Hello CR!
Yes there is quite a debate among the writing population whether she is making money off of someone else’s work or if this is truly an original story. Well yes the story itself is original (rolls eyeballs), but aside from some minor, minor eye color changes, these characters seem to have jumped from the Twilight books into 50Shades. Anyone familiar with these characters in anyway, could be picked out immediately.
I don’t know if Summit/SMeyer will strike and take action. I know she supports writers of fan fiction, but here is someone making millions of off her characters. And you are right, CR. doing anything too soon might not work or be effective at all. It’s like the mother and father who keep telling their child is something bad and don’t do it, so the kid wants it that much more.
Even if James does not get sued for copyright infringement, I personally would love to have her publicaly admit that her characters are the exact ones from Twilight minus a few name changes. I don’t know why but it would make me smile.
Thank you for popping in and giving us your take on this. Hope all is well. 🙂
I swear it seems like the only things changed about these characters was their eye color & names. Ana is clumsy, bites her lip, blushes easily, bookish (loves Austen, Brontes,etc). Even her mother is very Renee-ish and her dad Charlie-ish. Reading what I’ve read, I’m really shocked that Stephenie Meyer and Little, Brown have not gone after her.
I agree with you, yet “cease and desist” warning and suing should have happened already.
Sueing because you want a piece of their cash (because you assume they made a boat load) always occurs later after the hype and hoopla.
But, I’m not making any predictions.
Thanks for the concern but all is fine.
I don’t know if a C&D was issued in response to 50 Shades specifically, but a birdie told me last fall that some C&Ds were sent.
http://www.vulture.com/2012/04/fifty-shades-of-grey-the-thinking-womans-guide.html?mid=agenda–20120403
Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!!
http://www.vulture.com/2012/04/fifty-shades-of-grey-the-thinking-womans-guide.html?mid=agenda–20120403
Last one, I promise. And a hilarious and very honest review on this book.
ps. The comments are very insightful. Well at least the ones I have read.
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!! The only way to read this book! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!
Unfortunately I was five minutes too late from saving a friend from buying it on her kindle…