I have seen this movie a few times, before and after going through therapy for abusive relationships. At one point, I thought this was a sexy film, like so many others who seem to love it. I used to think the same thing as all these people giving this film high ratings, that it's just sexy, dark, intriguing.
Well, after therapy, I can't even watch it. The characters are a bad example. Elizabeth is a bad example for women because she doesn't set boundaries for herself and ends up slightly traumatized because she has let herself be used, done things she wasn't comfortable with because it made the man happy.
John is a bad example for men because he's the typical alpha male, womanizer, predator who has no regard for the women he abuses. In fact, he seems to like the fact that she is uncomfortable. Her reluctance turns him on more. He likes pushing her comfort limits.
This film has no informed consent, no agreement on what is pleasurable for BOTH participants. In fact, there are times when you can see Elizabeth is clearly not happy and it doesn't matter.
If you desire healthy relationships, even ones based on sex, then skip this movie.
Well, after therapy, I can't even watch it. The characters are a bad example. Elizabeth is a bad example for women because she doesn't set boundaries for herself and ends up slightly traumatized because she has let herself be used, done things she wasn't comfortable with because it made the man happy.
John is a bad example for men because he's the typical alpha male, womanizer, predator who has no regard for the women he abuses. In fact, he seems to like the fact that she is uncomfortable. Her reluctance turns him on more. He likes pushing her comfort limits.
This film has no informed consent, no agreement on what is pleasurable for BOTH participants. In fact, there are times when you can see Elizabeth is clearly not happy and it doesn't matter.
If you desire healthy relationships, even ones based on sex, then skip this movie.