What Is Secretary About?
The premise of Secretary in 326 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a muted corporate world where old‑school paperwork clashes with modern yearning, a young woman steps back into a life that feels both familiar and alien. The office of a solitary attorney feels like a time capsule, its sparse furnishings and relentless expectations creating a backdrop that is as much a character as the people who inhabit it. The tone is quiet yet electric, a study in restraint that hints at the simmering currents beneath polished surfaces.
Lee Holloway arrives with a past marked by family dysfunction and a recent bout of self‑destructive behavior that has left her navigating therapy and tentative social steps. Determined yet painfully shy, she clings to the routine of typing lessons, a tentative romance with an old acquaintance, and a job that seems oddly suited to her over‑qualification. Across the desk, the enigmatic lawyer known only as E. Edward Grey runs his practice with an exacting, almost austere demeanor, shunning technology and insisting on a laborious, hands‑on approach to his work. His presence is formidable, his expectations demanding, yet there is an undercurrent of intrigue that suggests his strictness masks something more complex.
The meeting of these two contrasting personalities sets the stage for a relationship that gradually blurs the lines between professionalism and intimacy. As Lee adapts to the rigid environment, she discovers a surprising resonance in the attorney’s commanding presence, while he, in turn, finds his composure unsettled by her quiet intensity. Their interactions are charged with a subtle dance of power and vulnerability, offering a compelling exploration of control, submission, and the human craving for authentic connection in unexpected places.
The film invites viewers to watch this delicate negotiation unfold, hinting at how far each will go to confront their own insecurities and desires. It is a mood‑driven portrait of two solitary souls whose entangled paths promise a transformative journey, all while keeping the focus firmly on the tension and tenderness that blossom before any decisive turning point.
What Happens in Secretary?
The complete story of Secretary, from the first scene to the last, in 408 words (about 2 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 1 cast member page.
Spoilers ahead
Lee Holloway, portrayed by [Maggie Gyllenhaal], is the youngest daughter in a dysfunctional family, struggling with her socially awkward and emotionally sensitive nature. Following a troubling incident of self-harm that lands her in the hospital, Lee strives to reintegrate into everyday life. She takes typing lessons, begins dating an acquaintance from high school named Peter, and manages to secure a job as a secretary for the notably eccentric attorney, E. Edward Grey. Despite her unpolished demeanor and the fact that she is far overqualified for the position, Edward hires her, insisting that the work is tedious and devoid of modern conveniences like computers. Lee assures him that she can handle the job as it is.
In the beginning, Edward seems exasperated by Lee’s missteps, yet it quickly becomes clear that her submissive tendencies ignite a spark of sexual interest in him. Confronting her about her self-harming behavior, he sternly commands her to refrain from hurting herself anymore, which marks the beginning of a complex BDSM relationship between them. Through this dynamic, Lee undergoes a profound sexual and emotional awakening, falling passionately in love with Edward. However, complications arise as Edward grapples with insecurities surrounding his feelings for her, feeling both shame and disgust about their unconventional sexual practices. Their evolving relationship reaches a breaking point after an intimate encounter in his office, leading to Lee’s abrupt dismissal.
Throughout this tumultuous time, Lee attempts to engage in a more traditional romance with Peter, even sharing lackluster intimate moments with him. After being let go from her job, Peter ends up proposing, to which Lee hesitantly agrees. Yet, during a pivotal moment when she tries on her wedding gown, she realizes her heart belongs to Edward and rushes to his office, professing her love. In an effort to test Lee’s dedication, he instructs her to sit in his chair without moving her hands or feet until his return. Unwavering, Lee complies, even as Peter, family, and friends visit her, alternating between discouragement and encouragement, all while Edward observes her from a distance, increasingly captivated by her submission.
After three intense days that garner media attention, dubbing it “The Lee Holloway Hunger Strike,” Edward finally returns to claim Lee and brings her to his apartment, where he tends to her with care. Ultimately, Lee and Edward exchange vows and embark on a blissful journey together, thriving in their unique dominant and submissive relationship, a testament to the unconventional love they discovered.
Secretary Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Hospitalization” to “A New Beginning”. 8 events name a place, across 4 locations.
- 1
Hospitalization
Lee Holloway is hospitalized after a troubling incident of self-harm that highlights her emotional struggles and instability. This incident serves as a critical juncture, prompting her to reevaluate her life and seek a healthier path forward.
Where:Hospital
- 2
Typing Lessons
After her recovery, Lee starts taking typing lessons as part of her journey to reintegrate herself into society. This step marks her attempt to gain independence and find stability in her life amidst her family's dysfunction.
- 3
Job Opportunity
Lee secures a job as a secretary for the unconventional attorney E. Edward Grey. Though she is overqualified, Edward sees potential in her and hires her, setting the stage for their complicated relationship.
Where:Edward's Office
- 4
First Days at Work
On her first days at work, Lee feels out of place, making several mistakes that frustrate Edward. However, these missteps inadvertently pique Edward's interest in her submissive nature.
Where:Edward's Office
- 5
BDSM Relationship Begins
Edward confronts Lee about her self-harm, commanding her to cease hurting herself. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of their unconventional BDSM relationship, where both explore their desires and boundaries.
Where:Edward's Office
- 6
Emotional Awakening
As their dynamic deepens, Lee experiences a profound sexual and emotional awakening, falling deeply in love with Edward. Their relationship evolves beyond mere employer-employee as they explore their bond.
- 7
Conflicted Emotions
Edward grapples with shame and insecurity about his feelings for Lee and their unconventional practices. These internal conflicts begin to affect their relationship, introducing tension and uncertainty.
- 8
Forced Separation
An intimate encounter in Edward's office leads to Lee's abrupt dismissal, pushing her to confront her love for him. This separation forces both characters to reassess their relationship and feelings.
Where:Edward's Office
- 9
Traditional Romance Attempt
In the aftermath of her dismissal, Lee tries to engage in a traditional romance with Peter. Despite her efforts, the relationship feels lackluster, highlighting her true feelings for Edward.
- 10
Peter's Proposal
Peter proposes to Lee, and though she agrees, she remains conflicted. The proposal serves as a catalyst for her to reflect on what she truly wants, leading her to question her feelings for Edward.
Show the other 5 events of Secretary Hide the last 5 events
- 11
The Wedding Gown Revelation
While trying on her wedding gown, Lee experiences a moment of clarity and realizes that her heart belongs to Edward. This realization compels her to act on her feelings and seek him out.
Where:Bridal Shop
- 12
The Challenge
Edward tests Lee's dedication by instructing her to remain seated in his chair without moving until he returns. This challenge showcases the depth of their dynamic while he observes her integrity from afar.
Where:Edward's Office
- 13
Media Attention
Lee's unwavering compliance garners media attention, coining the term 'The Lee Holloway Hunger Strike.' This public spectacle highlights the significance of her commitment to Edward and their relationship.
- 14
Reunion
After three intense days, Edward finally returns to claim Lee. He takes her to his apartment, where he cares for her, marking a new chapter in their relationship filled with love and acceptance.
Where:Edward's Apartment
- 15
A New Beginning
Lee and Edward exchange vows, solidifying their commitment to each other in a unique bond. Their journey illustrates the strength of their unconventional love and acceptance of their desires.
Who Are the Main Characters in Secretary?
2 characters, among them Lee Holloway (portrayed by Maggie Gyllenhaal) and E. Edward Grey (portrayed by James Spader): who each one is and the part they play in the story. 1 of them link to the actor’s page.
- LH
Lee Holloway (portrayed by Maggie Gyllenhaal)
Lee Holloway is a sensitive and emotionally complex individual who navigates the challenges of her dysfunctional family life. Her struggles with self-harm and her journey toward self-acceptance are central to the narrative. As she enters into a profound and unconventional relationship with Edward, she evolves into a more confident and assertive person, ultimately discovering her true desires.
- 💔 Vulnerability
- 💪 Empowerment
-
E. Edward Grey (portrayed by James Spader)
Played by James Spader
E. Edward Grey is an eccentric attorney whose authoritative demeanor hides deeper insecurities related to his feelings for Lee. His complex relationship with Lee showcases both protective and conflicting sides of his character. As their bond intensifies, Edward grapples with the societal implications of their BDSM dynamic, revealing layers of depth and emotional turmoil.
- 🧠 Complexity
- 🔥 Passion
Where and When Is Secretary Set?
Secretary is set in Law office and Edward's apartment. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The film reflects contemporary societal norms and challenges existing during the early 2000s, particularly around issues of sexual identity and unconventional relationships. During this time, discussions around BDSM and personal autonomy were becoming more visible, making the film's themes resonate with audiences navigating these complexities.
Where
Law office, Edward's apartment
The law office serves as a central location for Lee and Edward's complex dynamic, filled with the tension of their evolving relationship. It symbolizes both a professional setting and the beginning of their unorthodox romance. Edward's apartment represents a more intimate space where their relationship flourishes, marking a transition from professional boundaries to personal connection.
- 🏢 Office
- 🏠 Home
What Are the Themes of Secretary?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Love & Desire, Submission & Control and Self-Discovery.
-
01
Love & Desire
The film delves deep into the intricate expressions of love and desire between Lee and Edward. Their relationship challenges conventional norms and explores the power dynamics inherent in romantic and sexual partnerships. It highlights the transformative nature of love, as Lee's submission to Edward reveals her true self and ignites a passionate connection.
-
02
Submission & Control
A significant theme in the film is the exploration of submission and control, portrayed through the BDSM relationship between Lee and Edward. Their interactions reveal the complexities of consent and the emotional intricacies of power exchange. This theme emphasizes that submission can be empowering, as Lee finds strength in her willingness to submit to Edward.
-
03
Self-Discovery
Lee's journey is a powerful narrative of self-discovery, reflecting her emotional growth and acceptance of her desires. Throughout the film, she transforms from a struggling individual to someone who understands her needs and challenges societal expectations. Her story encapsulates the quest for personal identity, especially in the context of love and relationships.
What Kind of Film Is Secretary?
Dark in tone, with steady pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Dark
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A tense and unsettling yet ultimately tender exploration of unconventional desire, charting a young woman's difficult but liberating sexual and emotional awakening through a complex BDSM relationship.
- troubled
- obsessive
- tense
- unconventional
- revelatory
- awkward
- bdsm
- sexual awakening
- dysfunctional family
- unconventional romance
Content notes: self harm, sexual themes, psychological control.
Quiz
How well do you remember Secretary? Test yourself on the story.
