Secretary (2002), directed by Steven Shainberg, is a film that explores the complex and controversial relationship between two characters, Lee Holloway (played by Maggie Gyllenhaal) and E. Edward Grey (played by James Spader). Although imbued with themes of BDSM and power dynamics, the film presents more than just a dominance-submission relationship. The film delves into the psychological depths of its characters, exploring sexuality, and the role of identity in society. In this analysis, we will explore the key elements in the film Secretary that make it such an interesting and compelling work.

Character Background and Plot

Lee Holloway is a young woman who has just been released from a mental hospital after undergoing treatment for injuries caused by her self-harm. At the beginning of the film, Lee shows that she is an introverted individual, full of shame, and does not fully understand how to deal with everyday life. However, when she begins working as a secretary for a lawyer named Edward Grey, Lee’s life changes dramatically.

Grey, a man who appears tough and dominant, not only becomes Lee’s boss, but also acts as a figure who directs her sexual life through a series of dominant behaviors that develop between them. Although this relationship begins in a conventional form, the film focuses on the transition to a relationship of dominance and submission, which in many ways transcends the traditional boundaries of a love story.

BDSM Themes and Power Dynamics

One of the most striking aspects of Secretary is the theme of BDSM (bondage, domination, sadism, masochism), which is explicitly explored through the relationship between Lee and Grey. BDSM, which is often avoided or even misunderstood in much of the mainstream media, is shown in this film in a more nuanced and sensitive way.

The film does not simply depict a dominant relationship in the context of violence or exploitation, but explores the psychological aspects of the emotional and sexual needs of both characters. Grey, who plays the dominant role, not only seeks control over Lee in the physical aspect, but also in the psychological space, helping Lee to find a stronger sense of self. In contrast, Lee, who initially appears fragile and confused, finds comfort in her submissive role, which provides certainty and purpose in her life.

The relationship between Grey and Lee shows that dominance and submission do not necessarily reflect inequality or abuse of power. Rather, they reflect how individuals can find balance in relationships that are mutually beneficial and liberating for both.

Identity Crisis and Self-Search

One of the key elements of the film is Lee’s character’s journey in finding her identity and place in the world. Before meeting Grey, Lee was a wounded and confused woman. She felt worthless and insecure, evident in her dysfunctional family relationships.

However, through her dynamic relationship with Grey, Lee begins to uncover hidden aspects of herself that she had never recognized before. Submitting to Grey gives her a sense of control over her life, something she has never had. In this sense, BDSM is not just a sexual expression, but also a liberating tool for Lee to find a stronger and more autonomous identity.

Lee’s search for identity reflects the universal human need to be accepted and understood, which is often more easily achieved in the intimate and controlled space of a relationship. This journey is not just about sexuality, but also about how one accepts and celebrates who they truly are.

Feminism and Women’s Empowerment

While Secretary is often considered controversial for its depiction of a dominant-submissive relationship, the film also has strong elements of female empowerment. Lee is not a passive character in her relationship with Grey. As the film progresses, she begins to manifest her freedom more actively.

Although she plays the submissive role in their relationship, Lee simultaneously expresses a newfound emotional and psychological independence. Submission does not mean weakness or helplessness, but rather a conscious choice that gives her the power to express herself in ways she had not previously imagined. At the end of the film, Lee makes a crucial decision that shows that she has full control over her life and identity.

Through this film, Shainberg invites the audience to see female empowerment not only in a narrative that challenges patriarchal structures in general.

Symbolism and Visuals

The film is also very strong in its symbolism and use of visuals. The contrasting colors of black, white, and red in Lee and Grey’s characters’ clothing underscore the themes of power, submission, and transformation. The power of the visuals in the film helps convey deeper emotional and psychological messages without the need for excessive verbal explanation.

In addition, Shainberg uses space and setting to depict the tension between freedom and restraint. Grey’s office, with its cold and sterile feel, represents the order and control he is trying to create in his life. On the other hand, intimate moments between Lee and Grey often take place in more private spaces, creating a warmer and more human atmosphere.

Secretary is a film that challenges traditional conventions about love and sexuality. By exploring power dynamics, the search for identity, and themes of empowerment, the film opens up a more complex understanding of sexuality and gender roles. While the theme of BDSM is often considered taboo, the film presents a narrative that focuses much more on the self-discovery and personal transformation of its characters.

Through Lee Holloway’s character, Secretary shows a journey towards self-acceptance, proving that relationships, even the most unconventional ones, can be a tool for discovering hidden strength and freedom within oneself.