Question 1

Why did the actors have to hum in Vera Drake?

Accepted Answer

Because they couldn't afford to buy rights to songs, the actors had to hum something generic instead.

Question 2

What surprising fact about the film's production was revealed during awards season?

Accepted Answer

The film was nominated for a Best Original Screenplay Oscar, but Mike Leigh said the nominated screenplay doesn't exist - 'the film is the screenplay' since it was filmed without a script.

Question 3

How did the Venice Film Festival impact Vera Drake's reception?

Accepted Answer

After being denied by Cannes, the film was a big success at the Venice Film Festival and went on to be nominated for several Academy Awards.

Question 4

What was kept secret from most of the cast during filming?

Accepted Answer

Except for Imelda Staunton, none of the actors knew the film was about abortion until their characters found out, and all actors were forbidden to tell their families what the film was about.

Question 5

What central conflict drives the story of Vera Drake?

Accepted Answer

Abortionist Vera Drake finds her beliefs and practices clash with the mores of 1950s Britain, leading to tragedy for her family.

Question 6

Why did the actors have to hum in the film instead of using actual songs?

Accepted Answer

The production couldn't afford to buy rights to songs, so Mike Leigh asked the actors to hum something generic instead.

Question 7

What surprising secret was kept from most of the cast during filming?

Accepted Answer

Except for Imelda Staunton, none of the actors knew the film was about abortion until their characters found out.

Question 8

How did this film get nominated for a Best Original Screenplay Oscar when it wasn't filmed with a script?

Accepted Answer

Mike Leigh had to prepare a screenplay to send to academy members for consideration, though he said "the film is the screenplay."

Question 9

Which major festival rejected this film before it found success at Venice?

Accepted Answer

The film was submitted for the 2004 Cannes Film Festival but was denied, then became a big success at the Venice Film Festival.

Question 10

What central conflict drives the story of Vera Drake?

Accepted Answer

Abortionist Vera Drake's beliefs and practices clash with 1950s British mores, leading to tragedy for her family.

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Vera Drake

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