Plot

A look at the phenomenal success of novel, Fifty Shades of Grey.

A Channel 4 documentary (transmitted 29/07/2012) examining the effect the erotic paperback phenomenon is having and what it reveals about 21st-century Britain. Introducing an S&M couple who have written sex contracts with each other, and visiting a spanking class, this documentary examines the sociological and cultural effects the book is having in the UK, as sales of erotic literature, obscure classical music and bondage gear increase. A female book club read the bestseller for the first time and share their verdict, whilst adult retailers Ann Summers reveal what steps they are taking to exploit this trend. Psychologist and sex columnist Pamela Stephenson and Brooke Magnanti, who wrote Belle De Jour, share their reactions to the Fifty Shades of Grey phenomenon, along with other well known experts offering their views on the novel.