"Secretary"

First of all, forget everything you think you know about this film. If you've seen the trailer, then try to erase it from your memory, because this film is so much more than either the press coverage or even the film's own marketing make it out to be.

Maggie Gyllenhaal plays Lee Holloway, a young woman recently released from an institute. Her family life is less than ideal, so Lee harms herself as a release (with a sewing kit, assortment of drill bits and even a freshly boiled kettle).

In an attempt to lift herself from this self-destructive cycle, Lee applies for a job as a secretary in a very small law firm, working for E. Edward Grey (played by James Spader, in his usual James Spader-esque way). Over time, the two become attracted to each other. Grey tells Lee that she will never hurt herself again, and she listens to him. Grey is able to fill in the holes in Lee's life, giving her the discipline and, more importantly, attention she craves, while she can act as an outlet for Grey's more sadistic urges. Surprisingly, although she fulfills the submissive role in the relationship, it is Lee who is much more open to this unusual relationship, and it is her who continually pushes Grey towards some sort of consummation, as he tries to keep his feelings repressed and buried.

Interestingly, as a study of a sadomasochistic relationship, the film never descends into cliché or soft-porn. Instead it treats its characters with dignity and compassion, and encourages their inner demons to come out into the light of day, where they see that they aren't that hideous after all.

If you were to believe the media coverage, you'd think that this film is a dark, perverse and sordid film about a hardcore SM relationship. If you believe the trailer (about 6 versions of which are available on the DVD, with only very minor changes - what is the point?) you'd think it was a wacky screwball rom-com chick-flick which just happens to feature some mild kinky sex and bondage. But this film is far better than either of those viewpoints. It is a dark, but a thoughtful look at a relationship which seems extraordinary, but which actually works in practice. Both James Spader and Maggie Gyllenhaal (ohmygod she's gorgeous...) are both fabulous in this film, which I heartily recommend you watch, and be encouraged to let out your inner perv. You never know, you might like it. (14/07/04)