New York: The erotic best selling novel ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ was devoured across the world by millions, from British housewives to Guantanamo Bay inmates.
Now manufacturers and retailers are hoping that its ‘Valentine’s Day movie release’ will fuel a boom in the sex toy and bondage accessory sales.
Fans are avidly awaiting the big screen sexual adventures of business magnate Christian Grey and the young graduate Anastasia Steele, whom he seduces.
The expected blockbuster will screen 20 minutes of lovemaking between Grey, played by British actor Jamie Dornan who shot to stardom playing a serial killer on BBC series “The Fall,” and Steele, portrayed by Melanie Griffith’s daughter Dakota Johnson.
And to the cinemagoers hoping to get in on the action, American sex shops are stocking up on everything from blindfolds to bondage gear, determined to ride the wave of celluloid-inspired desire.
“Fifty Shades of Grey was the most influential cultural phenomenon for sex toys’ sales that I’ve seen,” says Claire Cavanah, co-founder of Babeland, which has stores in New York and Seattle.
Her company has added 20 especially branded “Fifty Shades” items and says film trailers have whetted appetites.
“We’re ready to respond,” Cavanah told AFP.
Those willing to shell out the big bucks can indulge in an “Ultimate Date Night Set” for $152, which includes a “greedy rabbit” vibrator. Those on a tighter budget might prefer a “vibrating bullet” for $13.
