The film Secretary concludes with Lee Holloway, having defied her parents’ expectations and societal norms, finally achieving a state of unconditional acceptance and love with Mr. Grey. This culminates in their unorthodox and physically painful love game, where Lee remains bound and blindfolded, demonstrating her complete trust and vulnerability, while Mr. Grey dictates her fate, ultimately revealing his desire for her enduring presence in his life.
The Final Scene: Surrender and Connection
The final scene of Secretary is undeniably powerful and profoundly divisive. It depicts Lee Holloway, after a period of separation and self-discovery, returning to Mr. Grey’s office. She presents herself to him, bound and blindfolded, placing herself completely at his mercy. This act is not portrayed as a depiction of abuse, but rather as the ultimate expression of their consensual power dynamic and the deepest level of intimacy they have achieved. Mr. Grey, initially resistant to resuming their unconventional relationship, finally relents, acknowledging that he cannot live without her. He doesn’t exploit her vulnerability; instead, he dictates how long she must remain in that position, demonstrating his control and her complete trust in him. When he finally releases her, he expresses his love and desire for her to stay with him, indicating a future where their relationship, however unconventional, thrives. The scene underscores the film’s central theme: the exploration of consent, control, and unconventional expressions of love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Ending of Secretary
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the complex and often debated ending of Secretary, exploring the nuances and implications of this powerful cinematic moment.
H3 Is the ending of Secretary romantic or abusive?
This is perhaps the most debated aspect of the film. The answer is highly subjective and depends on individual interpretation. Proponents argue that the relationship, while unconventional, is built on mutual consent and understanding. Both characters are aware of the power dynamic and engage in it willingly. Critics, however, point to the inherent inequality in the relationship and the potential for exploitation, arguing that even with consent, the power imbalance can be inherently abusive. The film intentionally leaves this open to interpretation, prompting viewers to confront their own preconceived notions about love, power, and consent. It’s crucial to recognize that consent alone does not negate the possibility of abuse, especially when power dynamics are significantly skewed.
H3 What does Lee’s act of binding herself signify?
Lee’s act of self-binding represents a profound demonstration of trust and vulnerability. It signifies her complete surrender to Mr. Grey and her acceptance of their unconventional relationship. It’s an act of agency, paradoxically, where she chooses to relinquish control to affirm their bond and her understanding of their shared desires. It also symbolizes her acceptance of her own desires and her willingness to embrace the parts of herself that she had previously suppressed or felt ashamed of. It underscores her journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance.
H3 Why does Mr. Grey dictate how long she must stay bound?
Mr. Grey’s dictation of the time she must remain bound serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it re-establishes the power dynamic that is central to their relationship. Secondly, it allows him to test her commitment and her understanding of their dynamic. Finally, it allows him to control the situation and ensure that the boundaries are clearly defined and respected. This act of controlled discipline ultimately reinforces the importance of clear communication and agreed-upon limits within their relationship.
H3 Does the ending condone BDSM relationships?
The film does not explicitly condone or condemn BDSM relationships. Rather, it presents one specific portrayal of a BDSM relationship and encourages viewers to consider the complexities of power, consent, and communication within such dynamics. The ending aims to explore the potential for intimacy and connection within a BDSM framework, but it also acknowledges the inherent risks and the importance of ethical considerations.
H3 Is the ending a happy one?
Whether the ending is considered “happy” is again subjective. While Lee and Mr. Grey are reunited and appear to have found a way to make their unconventional relationship work, it is not a traditional fairytale ending. It is a realistic and nuanced depiction of a relationship that is built on mutual understanding and acceptance, even if those understandings are not conventional. The ending suggests a future where they can continue to explore their relationship on their own terms, free from societal judgment.
H3 What is the significance of the typing test earlier in the film?
The typing test early in the film serves as a metaphor for Lee’s struggle with perfectionism and control. Her initial inability to type without errors reflects her inner turmoil and her desire to please others. As she becomes more comfortable with Mr. Grey and their relationship, her typing improves, symbolizing her growing self-confidence and her acceptance of her imperfections. The typing test becomes a symbol of her liberation from societal expectations and her embrace of her authentic self.
H3 What happens to Lee’s relationship with her parents?
The film does not explicitly detail the future of Lee’s relationship with her parents. However, it implies that she has chosen a different path, one that is not aligned with their expectations. The ending suggests that she has found self-acceptance and happiness independent of their approval, indicating a degree of emotional separation and a prioritization of her own well-being.
H3 How does Secretary challenge traditional romantic tropes?
Secretary actively subverts traditional romantic tropes by portraying a relationship that is built on power dynamics, unconventional desires, and a lack of societal expectations. It challenges the notion that love must be based on perfect compatibility or traditional romance. Instead, it suggests that love can exist in unexpected forms and be found in unconventional places. The film deconstructs the idealized image of romance often presented in mainstream media.
H3 What are the main themes explored in Secretary?
The main themes explored in Secretary include: consent, control, power dynamics, self-discovery, unconventional relationships, mental health, and the societal expectations of women. The film delves into the complexities of these themes, challenging viewers to question their own preconceived notions and assumptions.
H3 How does the film’s ending contribute to its overall message?
The film’s ending reinforces its overall message by showcasing the triumph of individual agency and the acceptance of unconventional desires. It suggests that happiness and fulfillment can be found by embracing one’s authentic self, even if that self is not readily accepted by society. It underscores the importance of consent, communication, and mutual understanding in any relationship, regardless of its form.
H3 What makes Secretary such a controversial film?
Secretary is controversial due to its exploration of potentially sensitive and taboo subjects, including BDSM, power dynamics, and unconventional relationships. The film’s depiction of these topics can be interpreted in various ways, leading to debates about its portrayal of consent, abuse, and female empowerment. The ambiguity and lack of definitive answers contribute to its ongoing controversy.
H3 What is the lasting impact of the movie Secretary?
Secretary has had a lasting impact on popular culture by sparking conversations about consent, power dynamics, and the representation of unconventional relationships. It has also challenged viewers to question their own assumptions about love, sex, and female agency. The film’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to provoke thought and inspire dialogue about complex and often uncomfortable topics. The film’s continued relevance is a testament to its powerful and thought-provoking exploration of human relationships.