Comprehensive information and links about Vera Drake

Vera Drake (2004Vera Drake is a British film directed by Mike Leigh. The movie recounts the story of a working-class woman in London in 1950, whose values conflict with the expectations of society.

As of 28 August 2005, it had grossed $12,713,051 at the box office worldwide, including over $3.7 million in the U.S. [1].

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Vera Drake (Imelda StauntonVera Drake is fearlessly devoted to her family, taking care of her elderly mother and sick neighbour. However she also serves as a backroom abortionist. She receives no money for it, believing her help is an act of generosity. The practice was illegal in 1950s England, and Vera's views are vehemently opposed by her son, Sid. When one of her patients nearly dies from her crude abortion, Vera Drake is tracked down by the police, arrested, and incarcerated for 30 months. Her family is shocked, bewildered, then divided after her arrest.

Improvisation

The entire film, as with all Mike Leigh's film and television work, was developed through an extended improvisation with the actors. Only Imelda Staunton knew ahead of time that the subject of the film was abortion. None of cast playing the family members, including Imelda, knew that Vera was to be arrested until the moment the actors playing the police knocked on the door of the house they were using for rehearsals. Their genuine reactions of shock and confusion provided the raw material for the dialogue and actions when scenes were subsequently committed to film.

"Costume Design". Nominated for "Best Film", "Best Supporting Actor", "Best Supporting Actress", and "Best British Film".