STAR RATINGS EXPLAINED

Classic

Excellent

Good

Fair

Tragic

FILM DETAILS

Certificate 12A

Cast Phil Davis Imelda Staunton Alex Kelly Eddie Marsan Daniel Mays

Directors Mike Leigh

Screenwriters Mike Leigh

Running Time 125 minutes

Vera Drake (12A)

Plot
Islington, 1950. Charlady Vera (Staunton) bustles about keeping her family together and cheerfully helping others. She also performs discreet abortions for girls 'in trouble'. Eventually, this charitable sideline comes to the attention of the law and a prosecution threatens to break up the family.

Verdict
An illustrated essay on life before legalised abortion, dotted with fiercely human moments. Painful for many reasons, but highly recommended.


Reviewer: Kim Newman

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