ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ

IN A NUTSHELL...

The Story: Mike Leigh's tenth movie has been feted across the world, winning awards at Venice and the British Independent Film Awards. Leigh has also received an Oscar nomination, along with the film's star, Imelda Staunton. The actress has practically been canonised for her turn as a salt-of-the-earth mum who "helps young girls" by performing illegal abortions in 50s London.
UK Box Office: Β£2.181 million (as at 5th July 2005)
Useless Fact: Leigh asked his cast to hum tunes from the 40s, but with one proviso: they couldn't be recognisable as the production couldn't afford to pay any royalties.

THE REVIEWS...

"A subtle examination of a simple woman caught up in a complex world. Anyone unmoved by Staunton should check their pulse" (4/5)

"This powerful picture has as its lifeblood the kind of performances that don't just happen, they have to be lovingly, patiently nurtured"

"It is as gripping and fascinating as the best thriller, as well as being a stunningly acted and heartwrenchingly moving drama"

"The last act is almost unbearably affecting, with Staunton going beyond the comic mannerisms to show naked pain"

"Vera Drake grows in stature and weight as it draws to a close"

"The ensemble cast deliver memorable performances. Staunton, in particular, gives a stunningly, moving performance" (4/5)

"Scouringly grim at times, but it also presents a wonderfully tender portrait of proletarian togetherness" (4/5)

"This is masterful, earth-shaking filmmaking - complex, entertaining and so profoundly stirring that it's impossible to get it out of your mind" (5/5)

"It's a slow burner of a film, but staying with it as the story builds is definitely worth the effort" (5/6)

"Heartbreakingly powerful, this is possibly Leigh's best film - and given his body of work, that's saying something"

"This is perhaps one of Mike Leigh's most timeless films, and definitely one of his most poignant"

WEB WATCH...

Vera Drake
Official site

"I'm allowed to do what I want - that amazes me"
Mike Leigh interview

"I'm not in that league"
Imelda Staunton interview

"You laugh with Mike more than you do with any other director"
Phil Davis interview

"He's a curmudgeon - but I love him for that because it means he's spiky"
Mike Leigh profile

"The only thing worse than being photographed is being interviewed"
Mike Leigh interview

The ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ is not responsible for the content of external websites