"Fifty Shades Darker" executives reportedly have their eyes set on James Foley to direct the erotic film adaptation. The "House of Cards" director was also offered to direct the third movie "Fifty Shades Freed."
According to Deadline, Foley is in talks with Universal Studios to helm the movie. If he accepts, Foley will be replacing Sam Taylor Johnson, who quit the franchise citing creative differences with author E.L. James.
The publication noted that Foley may be a good choice to direct "Fifty Shades Darker" for his reputation of bringing out the best in his actors. Given that Jamie Dornan (Christian Grey) and Dakota Johnson (Anastasia Steele) are relatively newcomers, it was said that they still have a lot of untapped potential.
The second installment of the "Fifty Shades of Grey" franchise is set to be darker and more emotional than its predecessor. It was said that the movie needed an experienced director who could give the screenplay, written by James' husband Niall Leonard, justice.
Apart from Foley, the producers are also considering "Electrick Children's" Rebecca Thomas, Mark Pellington and "Hysteria's" Tanya Wexler.
Meanwhile, it has been rumored that the "Fifty Shades Darker" release date has been delayed because of Dornan. According to The Stir, the actor wanted to spend time with his wife Amelia Warner.
"The Fall" star was allegedly worried that the steamy scenes he is about to do with Johnson would drive a wedge into their marriage. The publication noted that the actor wanted to appease his wife that nothing is going on between him and Johnson.