Say what you want about the ‘Fifty Shades’ series. It has plenty of critics and plenty of people that roll their eyes at its storyline. Personally, I was excited to go see the new ‘Fifty Shades Darker’ film in theaters. Though its much-anticipated release was February 10th (right in time for Valentine’s Day), I only went to watch it this past weekend. Needless to say, it surpassed my expectations.

The first movie of the series ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ received criticism for its flaws and flops. Though it’s understandable why the main character Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) would fall for the rich and handsome Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan), its themes of manipulation and an unhealthy relationship were cringe-worthy.

Though I have never read any of the ‘Fifty Shades’ books, I had high hopes for this sequel. Mostly because the trailers had hyped me up and the soundtrack was full of some great jams. This movie, in contrast to the first one, seemed more tasteful and even a little bit more romantic. Anastasia and Christian have a seemingly more healthy and normal relationship. That is if you consider wiring your girlfriend $24,000.00 and getting her boss fired normal. Cough cough.

As a non-movie expert, I thought the videography was stunning in this movie. And the wardrobe was stellar. My favorite look was Anastasia’s masquerade dress; a Monique Lhuillier silver gown accompanied with a silver, bejeweled mask. With prom coming up I thought to myself, “How can I make this look work?” and then realized only Dakota Johnson could pull it off.

Not only was ‘Fifty Shades Darker” aesthetically pleasing, it told the tale of a romance. Christian and Anastasia cook dinner together and she buys him a quirky Seattle keychain for his birthday. Though they have their ups and downs throughout the movie, their relationship is adorable and made me feel just a little bit lonely. Where’s my wealthy bachelor Christian Grey? Just kidding.

If you find yourself all alone this weekend and very single, gather up your best friends and hit the theaters to see ‘Fifty Shades Darker’. If you’re not seventeen (it is R-rated) then I am truly sorry. My recommendation then is to listen to the entire ‘Fifty Shades Darker’ soundtrack. You won’t regret it.