Review of Vera Drake (2004) by Ross W — 16 Mar 2010

Wow! Vera Drake is incredibly powerful. I think Mike Leigh is such an amazing filmmaker. He has this untouchable brilliance that pulses through the stories of his films, and in my opinion Mike Leigh is one of the best filmmakers in the world right now.

Vera Drake tells the story of a woman who gives illegal abortions in London in the year 1950. As the film begins,you get to know Vera and her family. You see what a simple, beautiful life they have. Vera has an absolute heart of gold.....she just has this one big, dark secret...that her family doesn't know about it.

The first half of the film establishes the characters, the setting, and the details of the story. Honestly, the first half of the film is pretty tame in terms of conflict, but the characters and their environment are interesting enough for us to be compelled to watch on. However, when the film hits its first climax halfway through, I cannot put into words what an incredible, emotional journey it is. The film makes perfect sense. The movement of the story is horribly shocking, yet hauntingly inevitable.

Imelda Staunton in the lead role as Vera Drake is....immaculate, flawless, beautiful, et cetera. Her performance broke my heart. She will stay in my mind and heart for a long, long time. Probably forever.

The rest of the cast is very strong. It's just astounding all around. Every character inhabits their role completely naturally. Because of this authentic world, I forgot I was watching a film almost immediately. You're invited into this world, and Mike Leigh's brilliance keeps you there until his story is told.

It's hard not to watch this film through a slightly more liberal lens than the general consensus of society at the time the film's story takes place (1950). The same condemning opinions of abortion still exist today, but in general, abortion has become significantly more tolerated within society. This adds a sort of victimized sympathy for Vera. However, Vera Drake does not seek our pity or patronage. Instead, we see a woman who has a strong conviction for what she does. The whole issue with abortion is a matter of perspective, and that perspective is informed by experiences, institutions, and other social influences. Vera Drake has her own perspective, and we see that her stance is ahead of her time. To some, Vera Drake may be a hero. To others, she may be a monster.

Vera Drake is a wonderful work of art. There are no simple answers to this film. Vera Drake is a criminal and is at fault, yet at the same time she is heroic, admirable, and has undeniably kind qualities.

I absolutely loved Vera Drake. I'm so glad I saw it. I have faith in Mike Leigh, and because he's such a great filmmaker, I knew I would like the film even before I saw it. So maybe I was a bit biased going into it, but man, the film has undeniable power. It will stick with me for a long time. I think everyone should see this film.