I cannot discuss of Mike Leigh however Vera Drake is, to summarise Mike,
really good.

I definitely like this kind of movie just showing the 'true' life of
anonymous people in important situation. You have a better grip on the
simplicity to pass from perfect citizen to 'hunted' criminal, just
because you're driven by your opinion, feelings.

This movie does not argue pro/contra Vera Drake but just give you the
description of facts. Definitely less catchy, but much more moving!

On Thu, 2005-01-13 at 23:07, michael721225 wrote:
> I've not seen 'Vera Drake' yet but I know exactly what you mean
> about Mike Leigh films. I did however enjoy 'Life is sweet' which
> seemed to capture the odditys of surburban life beautifully.
>
> Ken Loach seems that bit better at gritty realism. It's a bit of a
> Coronation Street vs Eastenders scenario of film tastes.
>
> --- In filmtalkuk@..., "Mike OBrien" <mob61uk@y...>
> wrote:
> >
> > 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.
>
>
>
>
>
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