AceShowbiz -

"Fifty Shades Darker" is following in the footsteps of its predecessor, "Fifty Shades of Grey". The highly-anticipated sequel to the 2015 blockbuster has dodged the NC-17 rating and is officially given the R rating by the MPAA for its "strong erotic sexual content, some graphic nudity and language." It means that audience who is 17 or younger has to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

One phrase is missing, though. While the first movie was rated R for "unusual behavior" due to its S&M scenes, the sequel will likely feature less hardcore elements. It's unclear what makes the sequel earn different classification of rating from the first movie, but many have speculated that it's probably because S&M is no longer considered that unusual in the United States since 2015.

"Fifty Shades Darker" is directed by James Foley. Niall Leonard provides the screenplay based on a novel of the same name by his wife, E.L. James. It follows Jamie Dornan's Christian Grey who wrestles with his inner demons. Meanwhile, Dakota Johnson's Anastasia Steele must confront the anger and envy of the women who came before her.

Set for a February 10, 2017 U.S. release, the sequel also sees the return of Kim Basinger, Luke Grimes, Rita Ora, Marcia Gay Harden, Max Martini, Eloise Mumford and Viktor Rasuk. Joining the cast members are Hugh Dancy, Bella Heathcote and Eric Johnson.