I'm not a huge fan of Mike Leigh. Some of his films tend to use
caricature in a clumsy and at times patronising way. There are
exceptions, though, like the wonderful Secrets and Lies, and Naked.
Vera Drake is another. It's probably his best, and proves beyond
doubt the outstanding ability of this director.

Of course, the performances are superb, especially Imelda Staunton.
There is a point in the film, at the very fulcrum of the plot, when
the camera stays fixed in close-up on her expression. In that look is
written the whole tragic story of Vera Drake. It's one of those
sublime moments of cinema. It's acting of the very highest order.

And Leigh knows just how to capture it. Again and again the camera
sits patiently in just the right place, or makes the perfect movement
to capture every last nuance of the scene. All is understated, quiet;
yet sharply observant and achingly poignant.

Many commentators have quite rightly made much of the period detail:
it provides a sense of authenticity that helps us fully understand the
inner working of the society of the period, so important to fully
appreciating the unfolding tragedy.

A truly great film.

Perhaps I should think again about some of those Leigh films I didn't
like.