"50 Shades of Grey" fans know that the casting process has been moving painstakingly slow since Universal announced the film's summer 2014 release earlier this year. We've obsessed over fan polls, homemade trailers and any piece of gossip that will give us a better idea of who will star as Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele. Finally, some steps have been made toward the film's production.
Director Gus Van Sant has reportedly shot test footage of a sex scene from "50 Shades of Grey" in attempt to earn the role of director on what should be one of the year's hottest movies. It may not be the official casting news we've been waiting for, but at least things are moving in the right direction.
Van Sant cast "Magic Mike" star Alex Pettyfer as Christian with hopes to catch Universal's eye. The scene features the pivotal moment when Anastasia loses her virginity to the domineering Mr. Grey. The actress who played the innocent Anastasia remains unknown.
Although it's inevitable that the news will spark Pettyfer/Grey rumors, Universal had nothing to do with Van Sant's decision. He most likely chose Pettyfer to appease the studio, as the actor is set to star in Universal's upcoming remake of "Endless Love." Van Sant also has also shot several movies for Universal Focus, including "Milk" and "Promised Land."
Van Sant's aggressive tactics prove that he's eager to snag the role of "50 Shades" director. That's the kind of determination that Universal and Focus want to see. They won their own bidding war for the series, paying $3 million for rights to the profitable movie franchise.
Van Sant is pulling out all the stops and would certainly add a reputable name to the project. Some have labeled "50 Shades" as sleezy 'mommy porn' material, but perhaps someone like Van Sant could class it up. "50 Shades" already has a massive cult following, and Van Sant could be the missing ingredient to attract movie buffs worldwide, making the movie the biggest release of the decade.
We may still be waiting for official "50 Shades of Grey" casting news, but it seems we may have our director. Things are looking up.