Fifty Shades Darker (2017)

Added to Netflix Canada on November 21, 2025

Anastasia Steele agrees to reunite with Christian Grey, but on new terms that reject his former lifestyle. Just as they rebuild their relationship, Ana faces danger from her obsessive new boss, Jack Hyde, and encounters Christian’s former mentor and lover, Elena Lincoln. Ana must navigate Christian’s shadowed, turbulent past to protect their fragile, yet passionate, future.

Length: 1h58m
Genre: Romance, Thriller, Drama
This Title is: Intense Relationship Drama/Erotic Thriller

Cast

Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Eric Johnson, Kim Basinger, Bella Heathcote

Parental Guidance

Maturity Rating: R – for strong erotic sexual content, some graphic nudity, and language.

FAQ

  • Is Fifty Shades Darker (2017) Based on a True Story?: No, based on the novel *Fifty Shades Darker* by E. L. James.
  • Where was Fifty Shades Darker (2017) filmed?: Vancouver, New Westminster, and Paris
  • Who Wrote the Soundtrack?: Danny Elfman

Filmmaker Profile

Director James Foley brought a sleek, polished aesthetic to this installment, building on his previous work in thrillers and dramas. He focused the story on increasing the external suspense and emotional stakes, aiming to provide a more visually expansive and complex backdrop for the central couple’s evolving dynamic.

Why It’s Worth Watching

This production is worth watching for its heightened sense of mystery and glamor, showcased through exceptional set design and cinematography. The extravagant masquerade sequence is particularly memorable. It effectively shifts the story toward a high-stakes psychological confrontation, delivering luxurious visuals and engaging melodrama that fans of the saga will appreciate.

Main Character Deep Dive

Dakota Johnson’s portrayal of Anastasia Steele gives the character a newfound emotional resilience and strength. We see her navigate a complex romantic landscape while dealing with the trauma of Christian’s history. Johnson skillfully balances Ana’s vulnerability with her growing assertiveness, making her transformation from naive graduate to confident partner feel authentic and captivating.

Unforgettable Quote

“I want to give you the world, Anastasia.” “I just want you, Christian. Not all the add-ons.”

Trivia

  • The film was shot back-to-back with its sequel, *Fifty Shades Freed*, in 2016.
  • Jamie Dornan shaved his beard midway through filming, which required continuity fixes during reshoots.
  • The production used the working title “Further Adventures of Max & Banks 2 & 3.”

Trailer

Streaming Link

Stream Fifty Shades Darker (2017) on:

Netflix Canada

Our Review

  • Quality:
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I found this picture to be a captivating spectacle of luxurious settings and romantic tension. The move toward a suspense structure, introducing characters from the protagonist’s dark past, was a successful elevation of the core story. The actors share tremendous chemistry, which makes their every interaction, whether tender or conflict-driven, intensely believable. I especially appreciated the visual artistry employed throughout; the high-fashion elements and the beautiful, sprawling locations are absolutely breathtaking. The production crew delivered a truly polished and entertaining experience. The soundtrack, with its chart-topping songs, perfectly complements the passionate mood. It’s an absorbing watch that manages to keep its energy high, leading to a satisfying conclusion. This chapter succeeds by expanding its scope beyond the primary couple, creating a richer, more layered universe.

Who Should Watch This?

Stream it if you enjoy emotionally charged romance stories mixed with melodrama and gorgeous production value. Skip it if you are looking for an action-packed thriller or pure comedy.