watching this I got as close as I'll probably ever get to punching a wall
Abortionist Vera Drake finds her beliefs and practices clash with the mores of 1950s Britain – a conflict that leads to tragedy for her family.
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watching this I got as close as I'll probably ever get to punching a wall
Mike Leigh is an absolute genius who is able to touch on ideas that possess such sensitivity yet can drive a story that not only ignites a powerful conversation, yet understands, above all else, the rights that each human deserves. With Vera Drake, he discusses abortion, a topic that is difficult to touch upon, especially in a way that is risky and attentive. Women can barely speak about these issues - at least publicly - let alone perform acts of such type. Despite the fact that Vera is solely aiming to aid others, with one mishap, she gets categorized as an unlawful criminal who needs to serve time in prison. Imelda Staunton’s performance is an all-timer. What begins as a cheery, witty, gracious and helpful figure turns into an elemental expression of provocation, pain, sorrow, regret and misery. Each stutter, breath, movement and shake is devastating, commending the screen with forceful potency and carrying incredible emotional weight, making me feel angry for the place at which people are at in society.
if you don't think society is advancing in a generally positive manner just watch any British period film set in the 20th century. has to be the absolute grimmest place on Earth
It follows a kind working-class woman in 1950s London who secretly helps desperate women by performing illegal abortions, culminating in her arrest and family crisis.
Mike Leigh directed Vera Drake in 2004, a renowned British filmmaker known for his naturalistic social realism.
Yes, it won the prestigious Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.
