Introduction
"Secretary," directed by Steven Shainberg and based on a short story by Mary Gaitskill, is a romantic drama-comedy film starring Maggie Gyllenhaal and James Spader. The film explores the unusual relationship between a young woman named Lee Holloway (Gyllenhaal) and her enigmatic boss, E. Edward Grey (Spader). Exploring themes of submission, control, and love, the film provides an unconventional look at romantic dynamics.
Synopsis
After getting out of a mental hospital, Lee Holloway takes up a job as a secretary for lawyer E. Edward Grey. The relationship between them goes beyond the traditional employer-employee dynamic and enters into the realm of BDSM. The film navigates the nuances of this unconventional relationship with humor, sensitivity, and a level of complexity that defies stereotype.
Awards and Cultural Impact
The film received critical acclaim upon its release and even earned Maggie Gyllenhaal a Golden Globe nomination. It has gained a cult following over the years and is considered a significant work in both the BDSM and romantic drama genres. "Secretary" is credited for tackling themes that were less commonly portrayed in mainstream cinema at the time, and it did so with grace, intelligence, and heart.
Critical Relevance
The film's nuanced take on love and control has sparked numerous discussions in academic and pop-culture circles alike. By focusing on a relationship that consensually strays from the norm, it challenges our perceptions of love, freedom, and power in relationships. In the years since its release, "Secretary" has found its way into various sociological and psychological studies, and it continues to be a reference point for discussions on the complexities of human relationships.
Where to Watch: A Country-by-Country Breakdown
United States
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Streaming: The film is available for streaming on realeyz.
- Buying: You can buy it on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Redbox, and AMC on Demand.
Australia
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
- Streaming: In Australia, the film is available on Stan and Starz Play Amazon Channel.
- Buying: You can buy the film on Apple TV and Amazon Video.
United Kingdom
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
- Streaming: British viewers can stream it on Starz Play Amazon Channel and Lionsgate Plus.
- Buying: The movie is available for purchase on Apple TV, Sky Store, Chili, Microsoft Store, and Rakuten TV.
Germany
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
- Streaming: In Germany, the film is available on Sooner, realeyz, and MGM Amazon Channel.
- Buying: You can buy the film from Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, MagentaTV, Microsoft Store, Pantaflix, and Universcine.
Brazil
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
- Streaming: In Brazil, you can stream it on Globoplay, NOW, Starz Play Amazon Channel, and Lionsgate Plus.
- Buying: The film is available for purchase on Apple TV and Google Play Movies.
Spain
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
- Streaming: Spanish viewers can stream it on Netflix and Netflix basic with Ads.
- Buying: You can buy the film on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Video.
France
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Streaming: Unfortunately, there are no streaming options in France at the moment.
- Buying: The film can be bought on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Canal VOD, Universcine, and Amazon Video.
Canada
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Streaming: Canadian viewers can stream it on Netflix, Crave Starz, and Starz Amazon Channel.
- Buying: The film is available for purchase on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, and YouTube.
"Secretary" is more than just a romantic drama; it's a film that takes a brave, nuanced look at the complexities of human relationships and the multifaceted nature of love and submission. Its cultural impact has not dimmed over the years; rather, it has grown more relevant as discussions about the dynamics of power, control, and consent in relationships have come to the forefront of societal dialogue.
Given the film's enduring popularity and critical relevance, it's no wonder that it remains accessible on various platforms across multiple countries. Whether you are a first-time viewer or a long-time fan, "Secretary" is a film that offers something new and insightful with each viewing.
In a world where discussions about relationships, power dynamics, and individual agency are more critical than ever, "Secretary" offers a unique lens through which to explore these themes. The multiple platforms where the film is available for streaming or purchase testify to its enduring