The general consensus? The movie is better than the book. That's according to both The Hollywood Reporter and Variety.

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Though another common thread — the flick lacks the tension, sizzle and, frankly, sex, people were hoping for.

The Wrap's summary: "'Fifty Shades' doesn't exactly leave me panting for more, but it certainly knows how to keep a girl happy during its running time."

And honestly, do the critics' reviews matter at this point? The movie is on track for a huge opening weekend.

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Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., arrives to a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, outside the U.S. Capitol in Washington. (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP)

Credit: Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP