Vera Drake

"Wife. Mother. Criminal."

Feb 4 2005 R 2h 5m
Crime, Drama

Abortionist Vera Drake finds her beliefs and practices clash with the mores of 1950s Britain – a conflict that leads to tragedy for her family.

Plot

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.

Written by

Mike Leigh

Directed by

Mike Leigh

Production Countries

United Kingdom, France

Production Companies

Les Films Alain Sarde, UK Film Council, Inside Track 1, Thin Man Films, National Lottery through UK Film Council, Film Council Premiere Fund, Ingenious Media, Untitled 03, Inside Track Productions

Languages

English

Awards

Nominated for 3 Oscars. 41 wins & 45 nominations total

Scores
# of Votes
28,535
Average Rating
7.6 out of 10
Metascore
83
Popularity
NA