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Vera Drake

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Original title

Vera Drake

Year

2004

Running time

125 min.

Country

United Kingdom

Director

Mike Leigh

Screenwriter

Mike Leigh

Cast

Music

Andrew Dickson

Cinematography

Dick Pope

Producer

Thin Man Films, Fine Line Features

Genre

Drama | 1950s

Synopsis

London, 1950: Vera Drake lives with her husband Stan and their grown-up children, Sid and Ethel. They are not rich, but they are a happy, close family. Vera cleans houses, Stan is a mechanic in his brother’s garage, Sid works for a tailor and Ethel works in a factory testing lightbulbs. But selfless Vera has a sideline which she keeps secret from all of those around her: without accepting payment, she helps young women to end unwanted pregnancies. When one of these girls is rushed to hospital following an abortion, the police investigation leads to Vera and her world comes crashing in on her.

Awards: 2004: 3 Nominations for Oscar: Best Director, Actress (Imelda Staunton), Original Screenplay

2004: Golden Globes: Nominated Best Actress Drama (Imelda Staunton)

2004: 3 BAFTA Awards: Best Director (Mike Leigh), Actress and Costume Design. 11 Nom.

2004: Venice Film Festival: Golden Lion. Copa Volpi for Best Actress (Imelda Staunton)

2004: European Film Awards: Best Actress Lead Character (Imelda Staunton)

2004: David di Donatello Awards: Nominated for Best European Film

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Critics' reviews

"Using Staunton’s face as his canvas, Leigh crafts a powerfully moving film that is unmissable and unforgettable (...) Rating: ★★★½ (out of 4)"

Peter Travers: Rolling Stone
"It has the virtues of most Mike Leigh films (...) an almost-brilliant character study"

Mick LaSalle: SFGATE
"A carefully calibrated parable that quietly sneaks into your heart and prods it sharply (...) Few movies have evoked the happiness of a good, strong family as genuinely as this one"

Desson Thomson: The Washington Post
"Leigh is at the peak of his powers with morally complex drama that stands alongside his best work."

David Rooney: Variety
"A prime example of how genuine drama terrifies and uplifts us. It also reveals how controversial subjects can seem fresh and new in the hands of a master director"

Michael Wilmington: Chicago Tribune
"It is as gripping and fascinating as the best thriller, as well as being a stunningly acted and heartwrenchingly moving drama"

Peter Bradshaw: The Guardian

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Ranking Lists Position

55 My Top 10 Movies from 2004 (51)

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Vera Drake

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