Who's to say that love needs to be soft and gentle?
-Dr. Twardon

First time I've had the chance to see the entire film.

The reason I liked this movie isn't because of the odd subject matter, but because the "love story", for lack of a better term, seems more heart felt and genuine to me then most romantic films that seem to come out every year. James Spader and Maggie Gyllenhaal are damn near perfect for these roles making Peter and Lee seem just like normal people struggling to understand who they are.

I haven't watched this since I was fifteen, so I thought it was worth a rewatch. My rating has gone up a star and a half because actually I really like this, I like the direction and the two leads give great performances. Spader gives off a great formidable air but he's also kind of goofy. Weird.

A sweet romantic drama about S&M. Who could have imagined such a thing. Definitely not a movie for everybody, but surprisingly well put together, with great performances from James Spader and Maggie Gyllenhaal.

A charming, slick, and deeply touching film that follows a pair of socially repressed office workers through a BDSM relationship. Marvelously made, deeply entertaining, legitimately emotional- and if you aren't intrigued yet then watch it for Angelo Badalamenti's score.

@Camdun_Roar: Just goes to show that every completely messed up round peg somewhere will find his round hol...oh wait..mixed metaphors 6.5/10

Kinky, funny and touching alternately. The last act has a couple of moments that are too silly but the thing pulls it round splendidly by the end. Maggie Gyllenhal is fantastic but top dog honours have to go to James Spader as the wonderful Mr. Grey.

Talking of which the writers would have a fair legal case against E.L. James if this film wasn't so much smarter and sexier than those rogue Twilight fanfics could hope to be. Great fun to watch with a partner too.

What a smacker!

Sexy and interesting.M.G was excellent as the messed up girl who falls for the man on her wave length.Worth a watch but not for the younger viewer!

Exactly what I expected; and I mean that in a good way.

Lee Holloway (Maggie Gylenhaal) has just been released from a mental institution for attempting suicide. While trying to get back on her feet, she takes a job as a secretary with the cold, distant E. Edward Grey (James Spader). Lee and her boss become closer, however, when he starts to treat her as his own personal erotic slave. Definitely not a movie to watch with the parents, Secretary manages to be both incredibly erotic and amazingly romantic. Sure Edward might whip Lee with a riding crop, force her to crawl around the office and dictate exactly how many peas she can eat for dinner, but he also shows her that she has worth as a human being and gives her something to live for in the process. Unconventional? Absolutely. But also a very touching romantic comedy that proves love doesn’t always fit into the form we envision.

Gotta get me a secretary.

An offbeat romantic comedy that somehow manages to be sweet even when dealing with sadomasochism. Much of that has to do with some fine performances from Maggie Gyllenhaal and the always interesting James Spader. It's not for everyone, but it's a successful spin on the usual office romance.

It was all right. I've heard a lot about it, so I expected a bit more.