Staunton shines in powerful Vera Drake

Vera Drake

Director: Mike Leigh

Cast: Imelda Staunton, Phil Davis, Peter Wight, Alex Kelly

Cert: 18.

There is much talk of an Oscar for English actress Imelda Staunton in this powerful drama … and it would be fully deserved.

The subject matter - abortion - is controversial, to be sure, but Leigh tackles it head on and with great compassion and gives Staunton, much honoured for both her screen and stage performances, one of her finest roles as the Vera of the title.

Drake is an ordinary housewife in 1950s London, when abortion was illegal, who is much loved by her friends and neighbours and by her family.

She also helps mothers who want to get rid of their pregnancy … and when the authorities discover her secret the outcome brings tragedy to her family.

Staunton plays Drake as a sympathetic character, one full of care for her 'patients'.

If there is any justice, she may indeed get her hands on an Academy Award come March.

Star Rating: 5/5