I love this movie so much

Instead, you get a movie that's enjoyable enough, but leaves you feeling like it could have been much, much more.

The plot isn't so bad, but the pace of storytelling is too slow which makes people bored. Certain moments are so obvious and unnecessary for the main plot. I would've fast-forwarded those moments if it was an online streaming. The ending looks like implying a sequel, not sure if this movie will get one

Blistering performances.

Character driven period-drama about a woman who commits a crime without being conscious about that. Vera Drake is a selfless woman who is completely devoted to and loved by her working class family. She spends her days doting on them and caring for her sick neighbor and elderly mother. However, she also secretly visits women and helps them induce miscarriages for unwanted pregnancies. While the practice itself was illegal in 1950s England, Vera sees herself as simply helping women in need, and always does so with a smile and kind words of encouragement. When the authorities finally find her out, Vera's world and family life rapidly unravel. Spotless performance by Imelda Staunton, British acting at its best.

Don't give up! This movie starts incredibly slowly and boringly, but ramps up the pace and drama the more it progresses. Ultimately turns out to be a very powerful drama, and an exploration of 1950s prejudices and hangups (some of which, unfortunately, still exist today). Though the movie is clearly meant to spark thought and discussion on abortion, director Mike Leigh doesn't really take a stance. In some ways this is good, as it means you can enjoy the movie as a drama, no matter what your view on abortion. In some ways, however, I wish Leigh had taken a stance (preferably pro-choice), just to make it more controversial. Imelda Staunton is superb in the lead role and deserved her Best Actress Oscar nomination (losing out to Hillary Swank for Million Dollar Baby). A powerful movie. Just be patient.

Imelda Staunton is "Vera Drake" in this 2004 film by Mike Leigh, a real master of storytelling and character studies.The film is set in 1950, and times are still tough in England. Vera lives with her husband and two children in a tiny apartment and cleans houses for a living. She is there to lend a helping hand to anyone who needs one, besides caring for her mother. Vera also has a sideline no one in her family knows anything about. She performs illegal abortions.To Vera, this is just another way to help people. She doesn't take money, though the woman who refers her is taking plenty, without Vera's knowledge. Unfortunately, one of the young women becomes terribly ill and the doctor, realizing what happened, insists that the police are called. During the celebration of her daughter's engagement, Vera is arrested.In a subplot, we're shown how the rich deal with unwanted pregnancies - as long as you have the money and a psychiatrist will say you'll commit suicide if forced to give birth, it can be done in a clean hospital by a doctor. Vera's patients can't afford this.There's not much else to say about the story except that Imelda Staunton gives a sensational performance as Vera - the shock, the crying, the inability to speak up in court, the terror, it all rings true. Though something like 48 when she made this film, Staunton is every bit an older lady who has had a hard life, a gentle soul who loves people, loves her family, and is always there for everyone. Staunton is believable in every aspect, totally inhabiting Vera. She was nominated for an Oscar for her performance. It was a tough year; she lost to the Song of Bernadette performance of Hillary Swank in Million Dollar Baby. Very hard to beat that type of role.Highly recommended - Mike Leigh is a fabulous director and he always has a top-notch cast.

What's especially amazing about Mike Leigh's slice of life films is his attention to detail. Detail in the way they look (art direction, lighting, cinematography...), detail in the actor's interaction (acting, writing) and the treatment of the script. Very few directors can create such authentic piece of life. His stories are about the common working citizen and one can easily relate to all the people he introduces us to. There is something unique about these people.Set in post-war 50's London, Leigh introduces us to Vera Drake, a working class citizen. 'Makes her living by cleaning people's houses, she's a homemaker, takes care of her family, takes care of her ailing mother and takes care of girls in trouble. She lives in a tiny crowded little apartment with her husband and two grown-up children. Yet, they're a happy family, content with what they have. Vera smiles through it all and even in the harshest circumstance she remains the kind soul that she always has been.The washed out colours and slightly dimmed light bring out the post-war look. The sets and costumes look very real. The score is subtle and effective. The editing is very good.Imelda Staunton delivers a transcendent performance. It's one of the greatest and most natural performances by an actress. Staunton completely embodies Vera. It's difficult to tell whether Staunton was just being herself or playing a character. Her performance could serve as a source of education for aspiring actors.She is supported by a cast of amazing actors who are brilliant. Alex Kelly is great as the shy and quiet daughter. Daniel Mays, Richard Graham, Philip Davis and Eddie Marsan are wonderful. Sally Hawkins does a fine job too in a brief role.The theme of abortion plays a key theme and it does raise questions but this isn't an issue based abortion film. Class distinction is also a key element and kindness plays an important part. No matter what difficulties Vera is confronted with, she deals with it through kindness.'Vera Drake' is Mike Leigh and Imelda Staunton's triumph.