Idaho Bans Booze at Showings of Fifty Shades

Idaho authorities are telling movie theaters serving alcohol that they can't provide drinks during showings of the erotic blockbuster Fifty Shades of Grey. The Idaho State Police has contacted at least two theaters showing the R-rated flick, ordering them to comply with a law banning businesses from serving booze to people watching sexually explicit films. "I just found it odd that this movie was singled out," moviegoer Michele Williams, 50, tells the Idaho Statesman. "I just thought, 'What year am I living in here? Women can't control themselves when they drink during this movie?'"

The statute passed by Idaho lawmakers in 1999 lists types of movie scenes requiring a booze ban, including simulated sex acts or touching of private parts. Fifty Shades features bondage and sadomasochism scenes. Business owners that violate the law could face up to a $300 fine, a six-month jail sentence, and a suspended liquor license. One theater operator notes that plenty of PG-13 movies technically violate the statute, which he hopes will be changed. (Things can get a little rowdy when the movie is shown.)