"Vera Drake" is a ten plus! An absolutely beautiful movie...perfect tone, perfect pace and a tour de force for Imelda Staunton, who plays the title character. By far the best Mike Leigh film I've seen! The way it slowly, quietly moves from the innocent, loving kindness of Vera's attitude and behavior to the chill and low-key stunner that breaks her heart and ours...is remarkable. I've rarely seen the like. Of course, it has the usual Mike Leigh contrasts of the fate of working class people with that of the rich...which in this case is very affecting. The profound emotional impact for me came with the sad evidence that well-meaning innocence and kindness are dangerous without a wise dose of caution and awareness of ultimate consequences. If Imelda Staunton doesn't win the Oscar for best actress,there is no justice! Don't miss this lovely film, no matter what the critics say!!
Review of Vera Drake
