Secretaries are often portrayed as the unsung heroes of the office, but what happens when their mundane tasks turn into a thrilling adventure? This curated list of 10 movies delves into the lives of secretaries who find themselves entangled in suspense, mystery, and danger. From classic noir to modern psychological thrillers, these films showcase the unexpected twists and turns that can arise from the seemingly ordinary role of a secretary. Whether you're a fan of suspense or just love a good office drama, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Parallax View (1974)
Description: A journalist investigates the assassination of a senator, with the help of a secretary who provides crucial information, leading to a conspiracy thriller.
Fact: The film features a famous montage sequence known as the "Parallax Test."


The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992)
Description: Although not a secretary, the nanny in this film acts in a similar capacity, infiltrating a family with sinister intentions, creating a thrilling narrative of betrayal and revenge.
Fact: The film was a box office success, grossing over $88 million worldwide.


The Firm (1993)
Description: A young lawyer's secretary plays a pivotal role in uncovering the dark secrets of the law firm he works for, leading to a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
Fact: The film was adapted from John Grisham's novel and was a commercial success.


The Temp (1993)
Description: A temporary secretary with a dark past takes a job at a company, where her actions lead to a series of mysterious events and murders, making her the prime suspect.
Fact: The film features a cameo by Lara Flynn Boyle, who plays a different character than her usual roles.


The Net (1995)
Description: A systems analyst, who could be considered a modern-day secretary, finds herself in a life-threatening situation when her identity is stolen, leading to a thrilling chase for the truth.
Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the concept of identity theft in the digital age.


The Secretary (2002)
Description: This film follows Lee Holloway, a young woman who becomes a secretary to a demanding lawyer, leading to a complex and intense relationship that blurs the lines between professional and personal boundaries.
Fact: Maggie Gyllenhaal won the Best Supporting Actress at the Golden Globe Awards for her role in this film.


The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)
Description: A retired legal secretary helps solve a decades-old murder case, intertwining personal and professional lives in a gripping narrative.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.


The Girl on the Train (2016)
Description: While not a traditional secretary, Rachel Watson, the main character, is involved in a mystery where her observations from the train lead her into a web of secrets and lies, much like a secretary might uncover in an office setting.
Fact: The film is based on Paula Hawkins' best-selling novel of the same name.


The Stepford Wives (1975)
Description: While not directly about a secretary, the film explores themes of control and conformity, where a new housewife uncovers a sinister plot involving the town's women, akin to a secretary's discovery of office secrets.
Fact: The film inspired a remake in 2004 starring Nicole Kidman.


Single White Female (1992)
Description: A software designer hires a roommate who turns out to be more than just a secretary; she becomes dangerously obsessed with her new employer, leading to a chilling psychological thriller.
Fact: The film was based on the novel "SWF Seeks Same" by John Lutz.
