Secretary Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Secretary" by Lionsgate comes with an AVC encoded 1080p image in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. While the transfer showcases a vibrant and bold palette with richly saturated primaries and healthy skin tones, there are areas where it falls short. Outdoor scenes exhibit noticeable grain, and midrange and far shots often appear soft, bringing an upconverted DVD feel at times. Close-ups of the lead actors offer impressive detail, and certain nature shots are quite striking. However, the overall softness and inconsistent grain structure might require a tempered expectation from viewers.

Contrast in this Blu-ray release is well-balanced, providing crisp, clean whites, though occasional chroma noise does manifest. Black levels are generally accurate and provide strong shadow delineation, yet the image doesn’t significantly stand out. Despite these inconsistencies, the high-definition transfer brings a clear improvement over the standard definition release. Definition and resolution gain notable enhancements with fine object detailing and texture being more pronounced. Fans of the film should find the improvements satisfactory, though new viewers may note the subtle drawbacks inherent in the upscale process and budget constraints under which the film was originally produced.

The Blu-ray release of "Secretary" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 lossless track. Though the film's substance doesn't inherently demand an expansive surround sound, the mix manages to effectively enhance the viewing experience. Environmental ambient effects, such as gurgling water sounds during scenes at the pool and a monsoon-like rainstorm, are subtly implemented yet impactful. The predominantly dialogue-driven narrative between Lee and Edward benefits from the crisp and clean sound provided by the DTS track, ensuring every spoken word and voiceover is delivered with excellent fidelity.

Additionally, Lionsgate's DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack excels in creating an immersive soundfield, particularly during outdoor scenes, even though they are brief. The rear channels elevate the sound design, delivering discrete effects that add depth to the listening experience. Angelo Badalamenti's score stands out, spreading across the soundstage with clear dynamics and blending into the background to enrich the overall audio atmosphere. Vocals are well-prioritized, capturing the actors' emotional nuances with clarity and precision. Low bass frequencies are adequate for this genre, supporting the film without overwhelming it. Overall, this lossless audio mix ensures that "Secretary" sounds as compelling as it visually presents on Blu-ray.

The Blu-ray release of "Secretary" offers a modest collection of extras that supplement the main feature adequately. The audio commentary by Director Steven Shainberg and writer Erin Cressida Wilson is informative yet somewhat uninspired, with Shainberg providing most of the insights and Wilson often concurring or making minor corrections. The commentary's one-sided nature diminishes its overall engagement. Additional features include a behind-the-scenes featurette, "Behind the Secretary," which provides a conventional but engaging look at the film’s production through cast and crew interviews, albeit in standard definition. The package also contains a Photo Gallery with high-definition stills, and trailers for other Blu-ray releases, rounding out the supplementary material.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director and writer discuss production, though it lacks enthusiasm.
• Behind the Secretary: Standard behind-the-scenes featurette with interviews.
• Photo Gallery: Collection of HD promotional stills.
• Trailers: Promos for additional Blu-ray titles.

"Secretary" is an unapologetically unconventional love story that delves into the complexities of BDSM and the dynamics of power and submission. The film opens with a striking scene featuring Maggie Gyllenhaal's character, Lee Holloway, navigating her secretarial duties while restrained—a bold introduction that sets the tone for the narrative. The plot then rewinds six months to reveal Lee's struggles with self-harm and family dysfunction, ultimately leading her to the office of the eccentric lawyer E. Edward Grey, played by James Spader. Grey's obsessive tendencies and Lee's submissive behavior intertwine in ways that challenge societal norms and expectations.

Director Steven Shainberg's approach is both respectful and intimate, focusing on how Lee's experiences impact her sense of empowerment. The film stands out for its darkly comedic yet heartfelt exploration of Lee's sexual awakening and transformation. Gyllenhaal delivers a remarkable performance that captures the vulnerability and strength of her character, drawing viewers into her journey of self-discovery. Spader complements her with his portrayal of Grey, marked by idiosyncratic quirks that reveal deeper insecurities and desires.

"Secretary" successfully walks a fine line between taboo and authenticity, making it a unique film that may provoke discomfort yet also offers thought-provoking insights into unconventional relationships. Shainberg's direction ensures the characters and their relationship feel organic, despite the peculiar context. The film's success lies in its ability to humanize its characters' unusual lifestyle choices, presenting them as a legitimate form of identity and connection.

The Blu-ray release of "Secretary" successfully delivers a captivating exploration of a unique and unconventional love story, with BDSM themes taking center stage. Directed by Steven Shainberg, the film features standout performances from Maggie Gyllenhaal as Lee Holloway and James Spader as Edward Grey. Their chemistry and nuanced portrayals breathe life into this darkly comic and at times disturbing narrative. The actors' commitment to their roles ensures a delicate balance between humor and drama, presenting a relationship dynamic that feels both genuine and introspective.

Technically, the Blu-ray presents the film with remarkable audio and visual quality. The transfer's fidelity preserves the film's artistic intention, delivering clean and vivid visuals and immersive sound. However, it is worth noting that the supplements provided are largely carried over from previous releases, offering little in terms of new content for avid collectors. Despite this, the audiovisual presentation alone significantly enhances the viewing experience.

You have to give "Secretary" props for going where few, if any, films have gone before. It's no doubt going to make a lot of people squeamish, but the film actually takes a relatively restrained look at the world of BDSM, managing to handle the content with both a very black sense of humor as well as some disturbing dramatic elements. Gyllenhaal is superb as Lee Holloway, and Spader gives a very nuanced, if patently weird, performance as Edward. This may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's a fascinating film and comes recommended.