Fifty Shades of Grey movie release date to be delayed

Fans of the steamy book have already had to wait to find out who would play the lead male role for the movie adaptation, with the most recent Charlie Hunnam dropping out at the last minute. But the cast appears to be set, only now the date is being pushed back from its original Aug. 1, 2014 release.

Is it really that surprising that the production, casting and release date of this film would be...a tease?

The stars in the film are final now, as featured on the cover of Entertainment Weekly, except for who will play Anastasia Steele's best friend, according to The Hollywood Reporter. But it looks like because of this setback in finalizing the details and cast, in addition to some more strategic planning on behalf of Universal Pictures and Focus Features, the movie will hit the screens on Feb. 13, 2015. Valentine's Day weekend is definitely a more romantic time for the EL James novel to come to life.

Dakota Johnson will portray Anastasia Steele and Jamie Dornan will play the role of Christian Grey. Besides the more ideal release date being close to Valentine's Day, production just could not begin until the actors were finalized. Although fans might be waiting anxiously, it'll pay off if the actors involved are really committed to the roles. Kelly Marcel adapted the book into the screenplay, and Sam Taylor-Johnson will direct the film.

Everyone who read the book and contributed to its bestseller status will have to hang on for while longer before they and the critics will inevitably either love it or hate it on the big screen.