Secretary (2002) Film Review

 Secretary (2002)

...Assume The Position.

Secretary, written and directed by Steven Shainberg, is a story that follows Lee Holloway (Maggie Gyllenhaal), a nervous, socially awkward young woman with a history of self abuse. Subsequent to her release from a mental institution, she is hired as a Secretary for a high demand lawyer – Mr. Edward Grey (James Spader). The film follows their growth of an erotic, sadomasochistic relationship. 

In a world where sexuality takes such a predominant position in film and television, Secretary represents a different kind of erotica that is devastatingly in-absentia within the art of moving pictures. The content and theme of this film is established within the opening scene, with Lee Halloway picking up a fax with her mouth; since her hands are bound by a heavy-duty S&M restraint, holding her arms out by her sides. A beautiful full-shot follows; Lee makes her way down Edward’s hallway (impeccable colour design, the office setting is breathtakingly decorated), slamming the door once she reaches his main office. This film doesn’t necessarily argue that S&M relationships are better-or-worse than a more typical one, more that sexuality is fluid and complex, and can be real reflections into what a person is thinking (or their mental state in general). Lee uses the masochism as a substitute for her own self-abuse; which, on paper, sounds extremely unhealthy, but the film shows that sadism is far more complicated than just being kinky. It is expressed as a form of art and love. Lee wasn't craving to be harmed, she was craving love; and Edward’s infliction of pain was followed by aftercare and (some kind of) affection; the audience, Lee and Edward can all feel the passion and consideration between them. A clear symbolistic choice from the director was Edward and his purple orchard. His close attention and care for the flowers in his office is a direct mirror-in-behaviour of what Lee was craving from him from the very start: dominating love and care. This is far different to the movie that it is commonly compared to, which is 50 Shades Of Grey. Fuck off, that film is rapey as shit and that fuck-ass guy just likes hurting women. 

Maggie Gyllenhaal's character is… well-written, to a point. She is gawky and awkward, sure, but there's certainly a lack in intelligence that comes off as quite demeaning – almost inspired by the damsel-in-distress archetype. This isn't extremely apparent, but enough to wish for a more developed protagonist. Although there are flaws present in her writing, I do love Lee’s character… but I think that is just because she's slightly a blank canvas! Her writing is similar to Bella Swan’s (Twilight) characterisation, which is infamous for being unimaginative and flavorless. 

James Spader's character is a little different – he is far more complex, far more developed. Although he is dominant and masochistic, he remains depicted as a quirky, nervous and, may I add, an unconventionally-cute-type character. Other examples of that archetype can be most of Paul Dano’s or Micheal Cera’s depictions in film – except if you made them lowkey super perverted and uhh stuff. I’m not complaining, Edward Grey is one of my favourite characters, not only from this film, but in all cinematic universes! 

Overall, this is definitely one of my favourite films of all time. The graceful representation of masochism is quite beautiful, with an extremely artistic take on what it means, how it's experienced and the mentality behind it. When I refer to Myself directing films, this is exactly what I have in mind – where the hell are all the erotic thrillers! I’m a Slut for you! Anyway, great film. If you havent seen it yet, please do :)