10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Secretary (2002)

Description: Like 'Secretary', 'Belle de Jour' explores themes of sexual repression and liberation, with a female protagonist who seeks fulfillment outside conventional norms. Both films use their protagonists' journeys to question societal expectations of women's sexuality.

Fact: Directed by Luis Buñuel, a master of surrealist cinema. Catherine Deneuve's performance as Séverine is considered one of her most iconic roles. The film was controversial upon release for its frank depiction of sexuality.

Description: This film, like 'Secretary', delves into a complex and controversial relationship with power and control at its core. Both films challenge viewers to consider the psychological underpinnings of their characters' relationships, though 'The Night Porter' does so within a darker, historical context.

Fact: Directed by Liliana Cavani, the film is part of the 'Nazi exploitation' genre. It stars Dirk Bogarde and Charlotte Rampling, whose performances were highly praised. The film was controversial for its depiction of a relationship between a former Nazi officer and a concentration camp survivor.

Description: This film shares with 'Secretary' a deep exploration of sexuality and its impact on personal identity and relationships. Both films portray characters who navigate complex emotional landscapes through their sexual experiences, challenging societal norms and personal boundaries.

Fact: Based on the novel by Milan Kundera, the film stars Daniel Day-Lewis, Juliette Binoche, and Lena Olin. It was directed by Philip Kaufman, who is known for his adaptations of literary works. The film was shot on location in Prague, capturing the city's beauty and historical significance.

Description: Similar to 'Secretary', 'Quills' explores themes of repression and liberation, particularly through the lens of sexuality. Both films feature protagonists who use writing as a means of expression and rebellion against societal constraints.

Fact: The film is a fictionalized account of the Marquis de Sade's life, starring Geoffrey Rush, Kate Winslet, and Joaquin Phoenix. Directed by Philip Kaufman, known for his provocative and thought-provoking films. The screenplay was adapted from Doug Wright's play of the same name.

Description: Like 'Secretary', this film explores the life of a woman who challenges societal norms around female sexuality. Both films portray their protagonists' journeys with empathy and complexity, highlighting the personal and societal conflicts they face.

Fact: Directed by Mary Harron, who also directed 'American Psycho'. Stars Gretchen Mol as Bettie Page, the iconic pin-up model. The film uses a mix of color and black-and-white footage to evoke the different eras of Page's life.

Description: This film shares with 'Secretary' a focus on unconventional relationships and the healing power of human connection. Both films challenge societal norms and explore themes of redemption and personal growth through intense, sometimes controversial relationships.

Fact: Directed by Craig Brewer, known for his gritty, Southern-set dramas. Stars Samuel L. Jackson and Christina Ricci in standout performances. The film's title is a reference to the blues song 'Black Snake Moan' by Blind Lemon Jefferson.

Description: Both 'The Reader' and 'Secretary' explore complex relationships with significant age and power disparities. They delve into themes of guilt, shame, and redemption, with sexuality serving as a pivotal element in the characters' development.

Fact: Based on the novel by Bernhard Schlink, the film stars Kate Winslet, who won an Academy Award for her performance. Directed by Stephen Daldry, known for his adaptations of literary works. The film addresses Germany's post-WWII guilt and the complexities of personal and national history.

Description: Both 'Shame' and 'Secretary' delve into the psychological aspects of sexuality, though 'Shame' takes a darker, more introspective approach. They share themes of repression, addiction, and the search for connection, with strong performances at their core.

Fact: Directed by Steve McQueen, known for his unflinching portrayals of difficult subjects. Stars Michael Fassbender in a career-defining performance. The film's explicit content led to it being rated NC-17 in the United States.

Description: Similar to 'Secretary' in its exploration of power dynamics within a BDSM relationship, 'The Duke of Burgundy' delves into the complexities of dominance and submission, but with a more surreal and poetic approach. Both films use their narratives to examine the emotional and psychological aspects of these relationships, rather than just the physical.

Fact: The film was directed by Peter Strickland, known for his unique visual style and attention to detail. It was inspired by 1970s European erotic cinema, particularly the works of Jess Franco. The film features no male characters, focusing solely on the relationship between two women.

Description: Similar to 'Secretary', 'The Handmaiden' explores themes of power, control, and sexual liberation within a complex narrative structure. Both films feature strong female protagonists who navigate and ultimately subvert the expectations placed upon them.

Fact: Directed by Park Chan-wook, known for his visually stunning and thematically rich films. Based on the novel 'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters, but transposed to 1930s Korea. The film won the BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language.