Secretary (2002) Review – Where to Watch Online
Secretary (2002) is a dark romantic comedy-drama directed by Steven Shainberg and written by Erin Cressida Wilson. The film stars Maggie Gyllenhaal and James Spader and is known for its unique exploration of unconventional relationships and BDSM. It has garnered a reputation for its quirky humor, strong performances, and unconventional love story.
This review will provide an overview of the plot, performances, and themes of Secretary, and detail where you can stream or rent the film online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Overview: An Unconventional Romance
Secretary follows Lee Holloway (Maggie Gyllenhaal), a young woman who has just been released from a mental health institution and is trying to rebuild her life. She begins working as a secretary for E. Edward Grey (James Spader), a lawyer with a penchant for domination and control. As their professional relationship evolves, Lee finds herself drawn into a consensual BDSM relationship with Mr. Grey.
The film explores their complex and unconventional relationship, focusing on themes of self-discovery, personal empowerment, and the dynamics of control and submission. Despite its unconventional subject matter, the film balances humor and tenderness, providing a unique and engaging portrayal of love and desire.
Performances: Charismatic and Compelling
- Maggie Gyllenhaal stars as Lee Holloway, delivering a breakout performance that combines vulnerability with strength. Gyllenhaal’s portrayal captures the complexity of Lee’s character and her journey of self-discovery, making her performance both captivating and heartfelt.
- James Spader plays E. Edward Grey, delivering a nuanced performance that combines charm with a commanding presence. Spader’s portrayal adds depth to the character and creates a compelling dynamic with Gyllenhaal’s character.
The chemistry between Gyllenhaal and Spader is central to the film’s success, providing a memorable and engaging exploration of their unconventional relationship.
Themes: Self-Discovery, Empowerment, and Unconventional Love
Secretary explores several key themes:
- Self-Discovery and Personal Empowerment: The film delves into Lee’s journey of self-discovery as she explores her desires and learns to embrace her own needs and preferences. It highlights the importance of self-awareness and personal growth.
- Unconventional Relationships: The film portrays a BDSM relationship with sensitivity and nuance, focusing on the consensual and empowering aspects of the relationship between Lee and Mr. Grey.
- Control and Submission: The dynamics of control and submission are central to the film’s narrative, exploring how these elements play out in both personal and professional relationships.
These themes are interwoven into the film’s narrative, providing a unique and thought-provoking exploration of love and desire.
Direction and Cinematography
Steven Shainberg’s direction is characterized by a blend of dark humor and tenderness. The film’s tone is both whimsical and insightful, capturing the complexities of the characters’ relationship. The cinematography complements the film’s quirky and offbeat style, with a focus on capturing the intimate moments between the characters.
The film’s visual style enhances its exploration of unconventional themes, adding to its overall impact.
Reception and Legacy
Secretary received positive reviews from critics, who praised its originality, performances, and exploration of unconventional themes. Maggie Gyllenhaal’s performance, in particular, was widely acclaimed and considered a standout in her career.
The film has gained a cult following and is often cited for its bold approach to exploring BDSM and unconventional relationships. Its legacy is defined by its unique blend of humor, romance, and emotional depth.
Where to Watch Secretary Online in America
For those interested in watching Secretary, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with a subscription or for rent/purchase.
- Hulu: Check availability for streaming options.
Rental and Purchase Streaming Services
For those who prefer to rent or buy the film, it is available on the following platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or purchase the film in HD or SD formats.
- Apple TV: Available for rent or purchase in HD.
- Google Play Movies: Rent or buy Secretary on Google Play.
- Vudu: Rent or purchase the film in HD or UHD.
- YouTube Movies: Rent or buy the movie through YouTube Movies.
Final Thoughts
Secretary (2002) is a unique and engaging film that offers a fresh take on unconventional relationships and self-discovery. With strong performances from Maggie Gyllenhaal and James Spader, and a blend of dark humor and tenderness, the film provides an entertaining and thought-provoking experience.
For viewers interested in a film that explores unconventional themes with sensitivity and humor, Secretary offers a memorable and rewarding watch. Check out the streaming platforms mentioned above to watch this distinctive and acclaimed film.
