Vera Drake.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

Anybody else seen this heartbreaking film? I don't want to over-hype
it, and it is emotionally grueling, but I sure recommend it.

[lukasahero]

1. Not yet but I've heard

that Imelda Staunton is fantastic in it. In fact, 98% of the reviews I've seen give it the proverbial "two thumbs up". It's on my must see list. Thanks for the recommendation.

[tishaLA]

2. She is amazing

And the film is devastating. You'll love it.

I thought about teaching it, in fact. I hate to harm a film by making it "academic" though.

[Beaverhausen]

5. She was amazing. I thought it's non-preaching was great.

Mike Leigh has created some real gems - "Secrets and Lies" is one of my all time favorite films.

If you haven't seen it just be prepared for a very intense experience.

[Eloriel]

3. Well, would simply giving a one-line description be "over-hyping" it?

I've never heard of it. Would LOVE a clue.

[A-Schwarzenegger]

4. It's about a woman in 1950 London,

a housekeeper who performs abortions (using a soapy
liquid) when asked & for free. The woman who plays Vera Drake
(Imelda Staunton) is just astonishing (heartbreaking
is the word). Mike Leigh, the director, (Secrets & Lies,
Naked, Career Girls, Life Is Sweet) is a master of working
class realistic English drama. (You might need your subtitle
option on your DVD). He uses a unique rehearsal process
where the actors help develop the characters themselves
or kind of become them more than other directors. I recommend
not only this film (from last year) but a lot of his others,
esp the ones I listed. I believe Imelda Staunton was nominated
for an Oscar (could be wrong). I still see this one crucial
scene where the camera is on her and she barely moves a
muscle but you can see her whole entire life crossing her face.

[Eloriel]

6. Thanks!

Very interesting. I'll definitely look into it and the others, tho I'm not at all sure my local rural GA Blockbusters is the place to do so. LOL -- I'll let you know.