In a move that may surprise some fans, Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson went on Twitter Friday to express his thoughts on a controversial film that would be released this weekend.
Wilson, who has publicly declared himself a Christian on a regular basis, wrote on Twitter that he was able to catch an early showing of the film "Fifty Shades of Grey." The film has been heavily criticized by both feminist groups and prominent Christians alike for its portrayal of strange sexual behavior between two people.
"Thanks for the early showing of 'Fifty Shades of Grey' late last night, Emerald City," Wilson wrote on Friday. "Great movie."
Twitter noted that Wilson's initial tweet on the film received 361 retweets and 1,245 favorites. Users of the social media site had mixed reactions toward the quarterback's thoughts.
"Why are you promoting #50shadesoftrash?" Jim Jacobson wrote in response. "I'm surprised."
"Wait, I thought Russell was AGAINST domestic violence," Jimmy Winskowski wrote.
"Come on Man! That movie is moral filth!" Pastor Matt Krachunis wrote.
"By 50 shades of grey, I hope you mean the clouds," Betsy Price wrote. "And by movie, I hope you mean that awesome sunrise this morning."
Wilson reassured his fans on Twitter that he has not abandoned his Christian faith.
"Saw a movie filmed in the town I call home," Wilson wrote. "[It was] provocative/disturbing no doubt, but that does not make me less Faithful. Have a blessed day!"
Once again, Twitter users reacted with mixed emotions.
"Point is, it had no impact on him as a person or his relationship with God," FaithfulWarrior wrote in response. "It won't influence him as a man."
"What did we misunderstand?" Daniel Nieboer wrote. "This isn't a movie that Christians should see, much less endorse."
"Saying it was a good movie is sick and wrong," Katey wrote.
Other Twitter users called out each other for being hypocritical in judging the quarterback.
"Wow, that got the 'righteous indignation' crowd out in force," PNW Fit wrote. "But Romans says, 'Who are you to judge someone else's servant?'"
"AMEN," Kristel wrote in defense of Wilson. "I was raised by a pastor, and I am very offended by hypocrisy and judgment."
One Twitter user took a philosophical view on Wilson seeing the controversial film.
"It's a fictional movie. He's an adult," Garrett wrote. "I've seen less flack over an NFL player who actually beat someone."
Wilson took the reaction on Twitter in stride.
"Now on a more serious & lighter note, 'Scarface' is an all-time ultimate classic!" Wilson wrote.
The Seahawks quarterback did not elaborate more on the controversial movie in question.
