Secretary

Lee Holloway, a young woman with a history of self-harm and emotional instability, seeks to re-enter society after a stint in a mental institution. She finds employment as a secretary for the demanding and eccentric lawyer E. Edward Grey. As their professional relationship deepens, they discover a mutual fascination with sadomasochism, leading to a complex and unconventional romantic entanglement that challenges societal norms.

Secretary was met with critical acclaim, particularly for its performances and its bold exploration of unconventional themes. While some found its subject matter provocative, many praised its nuanced portrayal of consent, power dynamics, and the search for personal fulfillment. It became a cult favorite and garnered significant attention during awards season.

• Praised for its daring and unique exploration of BDSM themes within a romantic comedy framework.

• Maggie Gyllenhaal and James Spader deliver compelling and memorable performances.

• A thought-provoking film that challenges conventional notions of love and power.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's originality and the strong performances, finding it a quirky and engaging story about an unusual relationship. Some viewers found the subject matter challenging but ultimately found the film to be surprisingly tender and well-acted.

Maggie Gyllenhaal received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy. The film also won the Sundance Film Festival Special Jury Prize for Originality of Vision.

During the casting process, Gwyneth Paltrow was initially considered for the role of Lee Holloway, but ultimately passed on the project.