Starring: Imelda Staunton, Richard Graham, Eddie Marsan, Anna Keaveney, Alex Kelly, Daniel Mays,
Philip Davis
Director: Mike Leigh
The film: As many people will already be aware, from its many nominations at the recent round of high-profile international film awards, this film focuses on the day-to-day operations of the fictitious backstreet abortion practitioner whose name graces the title.
Mike Leigh, better known for his black comedies (Secrets & Lies, 1996; Life is Sweet, 1990; High Hopes, 1988, and many others) that have a higher laugh count than this movie, nevertheless will surely conjure up a smile from most viewers.
Most laughable of all, though more a quiet chortle than a thigh-slapping guffaw, is the convincing portrayal of old lady Drake's double life. By day she is a typical 'everything'll be all right, love' cleaning lady for wealthy families, which she intersperses with voluntary service, in the form of cleaning, bathing and cooking for the bedridden poor; by night she 'helps young girls out'. This is a phrase she uses for her voluntary abortion services.
The contrast between the way people perceive Drake and the affable manner that carries on into her secret after-hours work, is actually more unnerving than amusing.