Imelda Staunton stars as Vera Drake, a working-class woman who secretly performs abortions in 1950s London, with Phil Davis as her husband Stan and Daniel Mays as her son Sid.
Main cast
- Vera DrakeImelda StauntonMain
- Stan DrakePhil DavisMain
- Sid DrakeDaniel MaysMain
- Ethel DrakeAlex KellyMain
Supporting cast
- Reg (Vera’s brother)Eddie MarsanSupp
- Lily (friend)Ruth SheenSupp
- WPC (Woman Police Constable) Vicky BarnesHelen CokerSupp
Guest & voice
- Mr. Wells (abortion client’s husband)Jim BroadbentGuest
- Detective Inspector WebsterHugh O’ConorGuest
- Pamela (client)Sally HawkinsGuest
- Rose (client)Sinead MatthewsGuest
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About this cast
Directed by Mike Leigh, Vera Drake is a 2004 British drama film set in post-war London. Imelda Staunton delivers a critically acclaimed performance as the titular character, a kind-hearted cleaner and mother who is arrested for her covert abortion work.
FAQs
Who plays Vera Drake in Vera Drake?
Imelda Staunton plays the lead role of Vera Drake, earning an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.
What is Vera Drake about?
The film follows a cheerful working-class woman in 1950s London who secretly performs illegal abortions for women in need, leading to her arrest and trial.
Is Vera Drake based on a true story?
No, it is a fictional story, but it reflects the real-life experiences of women and abortion laws in pre-1967 England.
Who directed Vera Drake?
The film was directed by Mike Leigh, known for his naturalistic style and character-driven dramas.
When was Vera Drake released?
The film premiered in 2004 at the Venice Film Festival and was released in UK cinemas in 2005.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026