"Fifty Shades of Grey" screenplay writer chosen

E L James introduced millions of readers to Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey. Now, a writer has been chosen to bring them to the big screen.

Kelly Marcel will write the screenplay for the film adaptation of James' wildly popular erotic novel "Fifty Shades of Grey," Universal Pictures and Focus Features announced Monday.

Marcel co-created the short-lived Fox series "Terra Nova," and also wrote the 2011 Black List script "Saving Mr. Banks," about Walt Disney's 20-year pursuit of the film rights to the book "Mary Poppins." That film is currently in production at Walt Disney Studios, starring Tom Hanks, Emma Thompson and Colin Farrell.

The "Fifty Shades" author announced the news to her fans on Monday via Twitter and directed them to the film's Facebook page, where the full press release was posted.

Michael De Luca and Dana Brunetti will produce the film, along with James. "Kelly's work demonstrates her flawless structural technique and passionate commitment to emotion, humor and depth of character which is particularly visible in the celebrated screenplay for the upcoming 'Saving Mr. Banks,'" De Luca said in a statement. Brunetti added, "We were all taken with the depth and passion of Kelley's engagement with the characters and world E L James has created and we knew she was the right person to augment our 'Fifty Shades' family."

James' "Fifty Shades" trilogy has sold more than 32 copies in e-book and print in the United States alone. Universal and Focus Features acquired the films rightsback in March.

Tell us: Who do you think should play Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey?