It's an unpleasant subject, but let's face it unwanted pregnancies are recurring problems. Mike Leigh who wrote the script and directed the action gives his usual discerning interpretation of the ordinary lives of English families. Mrs. Vera Drake (Imelda Staunton) has not much to give apart from a kindly word and a busy pair of hands as she makes her daily visits to her neighbours, helping wherever possible, showing compassion for the elderly and bedridden. Honestly though if she had made another cup of tea I would have screamed. Tea it seems is a panacea for all problems in England...and there are many! Vera unfortunately goes a little too far in her offers of help to those young girls who are "in trouble" in contravention of well established English abortion laws.
It only requires infection in one patient and the truth will out and police are knocking at the door.
When a warrant for her arrest removes her from her family, we see how the family structure is shattered. This is when the film starts to get interesting. None of the family knows what Mum has been up to. After signing a written statement she faces a magistrate. His decision is swift. Vera won't be putting the kettle on for a long time.
Due credit must be given to Imelda Staunton for the excellence of her characterization, particularly for her contrasting moods before and after the exposure of her crime. She gives us a real character full of kindness and compassion and we feel for Vera despite her contempt of the law. It is hard to believe that she received no payment for her services, but not surprising to learn that others who secretly recommended her, collected a nice little fee.
The film shows very little respect for the medical profession. Cold and heartless on occasions. "How much money have you got?" asks one doctor.
This is not a film to cheer you up, but it lets you know how the other half live. Thank your lucky stars you are not a part of it.
It only requires infection in one patient and the truth will out and police are knocking at the door.
When a warrant for her arrest removes her from her family, we see how the family structure is shattered. This is when the film starts to get interesting. None of the family knows what Mum has been up to. After signing a written statement she faces a magistrate. His decision is swift. Vera won't be putting the kettle on for a long time.
Due credit must be given to Imelda Staunton for the excellence of her characterization, particularly for her contrasting moods before and after the exposure of her crime. She gives us a real character full of kindness and compassion and we feel for Vera despite her contempt of the law. It is hard to believe that she received no payment for her services, but not surprising to learn that others who secretly recommended her, collected a nice little fee.
The film shows very little respect for the medical profession. Cold and heartless on occasions. "How much money have you got?" asks one doctor.
This is not a film to cheer you up, but it lets you know how the other half live. Thank your lucky stars you are not a part of it.