Review of Secretary (2002) by Daniel A — 07 Dec 2010
If you didn't rate Maggie Gyllenhaal before, then it'll be difficult to ignore her after viewing this erotic masterpiece. Secretary is a romantic comedy unlike anything you've ever seen before.
When you think about unconventional films, what would you say to a rom-com based around a BDSM relationship between a lawyer and his new secretary who's fresh out of the local mental institution? Add to the mix some heavy hitting themes like self-harm and sexual harassment, and you've basically got Secretary; an often amusing, sometimes touching and clearly unique film. Talk about paradoxical!
Maggie Gyllenhaal plays Lee Holloway, a troubled young woman who regularly cuts herself, but after starting a secretarial job finds a new way to channel her need for physical pain. Let it be known that Gyllenhaal is a revelation. Considering this is her first leading role, she exhibits such talent and restraint that is rarely seen in an actress of her experience. The mere fact that she's fearless enough to take on a role like this is testament to why she's one of the most exciting young actresses in Hollywood. She plays plays Lee with great dedication, exhibiting comedic flourishes when necessary and providing a truly unexpected sexuality to the more erotic moments.
Opposite her James Spader plays the broken man perfectly. His character is surprisingly three dimensional, clinging to his masculinity through dominance over women; an addiction he despises but finds simultaneously irresistible. The chemistry between himself and Gyllenhaal is palpable, and proves key to the success of the more sexual scenes which are powerful enough to leave pulses racing and breathing heavy.
Director Steven Shainberg, who was awarded the Special Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival specifically for the originality of this film, is unswerving in his portrayal of the issues at hand. While some may claim the film treads on the toes of bad taste, I would argue that Shainberg actually treats the issue of self harm rather respectfully. He at least admits that it is a real problem which can have very lasting effects, and that's certainly more than some are willing to do. Plus he's done it in a unique and entertaining way, that can be accessed by many.
As such Secretary is a brilliantly original film, laying waste to the formulaic romances that litter multiplexes nowadays. This film is a rare treat.
This review of Secretary (2002) was written by Daniel A on 07 Dec 2010.
Secretary has generally received positive reviews.
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