When you go into a film series like that of 'Fifty Shades Darker', you have to expect that there's going to be a lot of sex scenes - and not just as a sideline. They are not a great many actors' favourite thing to shoot, but for Jamie Dornan, his connection with his co-star got him through it time and time again.

Jamie DornanJamie Dornan stars alongside Dakota Johnson in 'Fifty Shades Darker'

With bright lights shining, the careful scrutiny of the director and cinematographer, and beefy sound guys eating sandwiches in the background, you can understand why intimate scenes are never the most fun bits to shoot of a movie - especially if you happen to be in a relationship. However, 'Fifty Shades Darker' is branded as an erotic thriller, so there was no room for awkwardness between Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson who played Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele in the film.

'Dakota and I are so close now, we're great friends', he said at the film's premiere. 'I think that makes things very easy, and much easier especially to get through the sex scenes and stuff. We have a deep understanding of each other, and love and respect for each other, and that's sort of essential.'

Watch the trailer for 'Fifty Shades Darker' here:


 

'Fifty Shades Darker' is the sequel to the 2015 film 'Fifty Shades of Grey'. It's based on a trilogy of books by E. L. James, which means that the actors have to be comfortable undressing and embracing each other for at least one more movie - 'Fifty Shades Freed'. 

More: Dakota Johnson talks about 'Fifty Shades Darker' intensity

Though, of course, their particular sex scenes aren't quite that simple. The premise of the book is based on a very sexual relationship between two people; one of which enjoys employing sadomasochism and bondage to his bedroom ventures.

Directed by James Foley, 'Fifty Shades Darker' is in theatres now, and no doubt a must-see for Valentine's Day today (February 14th 2017).