There has been a lot of attention placed on the new movie Fifty Shades of Grey and, honestly, I don't know why. To begin with, I am all of the following: white, Christian, female, and Southern, and I grew up in a solidly middle class home. My parents taught me that you should not make waves just for the sake of other peoples' reactions. My mother taught me to respect myself, and my father taught me that if any man ever laid his hands on me, he would lose those hands faster than the blink of an eye. For all intents and purposes, I should hate that movie and everything it stands for. But I don't, and here is why.
It is all consensual. Only once does Anastasia object to Christian's behavior or treatment of her, and Christian immediately gives her distance and goes away. He fights for her acceptance and approval (like any man should), but never physically harms her without her permission. He always asks if she is on board with the plan, and even created safe words for when she no longer feels comfortable. Heck, she even signed a contract outlining exactly what she was okay, or not okay, with.
It is not about domestic abuse, because that implies Ana said no. Real people have been the victims of abuse, and we absolutely should do our best to help them and prevent it from happening to others, but that does not mean 50 Shades is that scapegoat cause.
In addition, the movie promotes boldness and courage. I know, I know -- hear me out. Young women in today's culture are expected to act a certain way, and dress in a certain way, and if they deviate from those norms, they are called sluts or ridiculed. It is madness. We should be able to be ourselves, especially in the privacy of our own homes, and not be ashamed. Whether that means trying some freaky sex stuff or binge eating popcorn, it is nice when a woman can let loose and please herself for a change. No judgement necessary.
If you are vehemently opposed to 50 Shades, don't go see it. But if you want to go watch an entertaining movie and laugh about it later with friends, go see it, and don't let anyone guilt you about it afterwards. It is really just fun at the end of the day.
