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I originally watched this film in theaters in New York City, when it originally came out, and it made such an indelible connection in my brain, that some of the images never left my brain.
It is therefore no surprise that when recently all this talk arose regarding Fifty Shades of Grey, I automatically thought about Secretary, and made (no exaggeration) 7 attempts to read the book. Each time giving up a page into the book. I am now at the end of chapter 1, and I'm throwing the towel in.
Horrible writing. Pure adulterated horrible writing.
Secretary on the other hand is just utterly gorgeous.
In the 10 years since I saw this film, I had forgotten some of the more memorable shots in the film. I'm assuming I was more interested in the sexual side of the film, and who wouldn't be.
But take a closer look and you'll be rendered speechless by the romantic intonations of the film. Yes they are both, James Spader and Maggie Gyllenhaal, completely crazy in this film. But even crazies deserve love, and what better way to do it than through a beautiful fetish, film.
The camera work is phenomenal, the editing is unnoticeable (which makes it perfect), the acting is spot on and raw, but perhaps the most stunning aspect of the film, is a part that maintains its utter subtlety throughout, the music.
It's there throughout the film, never really stopping, just softly humming away, barely noticeable, until it crescendos in the most beautiful and perfectly times place. I just loved it. I haven't been that happy about a few bars of music since Jingle Bells.
Buy this film now, save yourself the hassle of reading Fifty Shades. If you want porn, go watch it. If you want great film making watch Secretary (2002) right now.
"Assume the position" indeed.
I'm with you, I have no interest in reading "Fifty Shades of Grey." If she had chosen a different name for her lead character I would probably not to be so annoyed with the premise of the book. To me it becomes a poor, cheap, semi rip-off of one of my all-time favorite films. Secretary is a unique film, and according to my friends who have attempted to read "Fifty Shades..." it is a very poorly written book. James Spader and Maggie Gyllenhaal are absolutely perfect as E. Edward Grey and Lee Holloway...their performances are brilliant! I refuse to have the name Grey sullied by reading the book.
ReplyDeleteI agree, apart from being one of my all time favorite films, it's tied for first place with Hedwig and the Angry Inch for best indie film. I think it's phenomenal that they both manage to deal with iffy subjects with both levity and import, and in the process, made great films.
ReplyDeleteI have not seen Hedwig and the Angry Inch; I will have to Netflix it. My other favorite, besides Secretary, in the Indie film realm is sex, lies, and videotape for much the same reasons as you stated. These are adult films for adults that deal with interesting subject matter with levity and heart. I love a film that has strong character development, and so few do these days...thank goodness for indies!
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure if Netflix would have it, but it is definitely worth finding it out. It's a musical in the vein of Rocky Horror, although much better quality, and less campy music. Very well done. I don't think I've seen Sex, Lies, and Videotape, so it's going on my Blockbuster queue.
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