‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ Latest News: Does E.L. James want to Direct the Sequel?
Although the release dates for the sequels to "Fifty Shades of Grey," "Fifty Shades Darker" and "Fifty Shades Free" have been announced, Universal Studios still has not named a new director.
The latest rumor claims that the author of the romantic, BDSM book series, E.L. James wants to direct. James had a huge part in the production of the first movie, which was directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, who decided to part ways from the trilogy. Rumors stated that James and Taylor-Johnson had many creative differences.
"Sam Taylor-Johnson is not returning to the director's chair and they are hesitant in putting E.L James in that position," an insider told HollywoodLife.com exclusively. "She wants to do it, but the studio obviously sees the nightmares that could come from that.
The source added, "It's going to be someone new and the announcement will probably be made around July. They want a director who is not well known so they can keep the costs down and allow the studio and E.L. to get their way and their vision."
The screenplay for "Fifty Shades Darker" will be written by James' husband, Niall Leonard. Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson will reprise their roles as Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele.
Both actors are reportedly negotiating for seven-figure contracts after being paid around $250,000 each for the first film. Star Magazine is reporting that Dornan was offered a $1.5 million bonus if he agrees to do a full frontal scene.
The magazine says, "That's just a starting figure. Jamie would be crazy not to consider it."
"Fifty Shades of Grey" had a huge opening during Valentine's Day weekend. The movie has grossed more than $400 million worldwide.
