Imelda Staunton is possibly my favourite actress in Britain. I adore her.I am also preparing to write a 3000 word essay about her and her acting abilities and methods.This entry is a brief look at Imelda’s greatest work.
Vera Drake (2004)
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| Vera Drake (2004) |
The role that has defined her career. Imelda’s portrayal of Vera Drake, (the caring, human mother who spends her spare time performing abortions for young women), is both moving and chilling. However, her performance within Vera Drake is impressive as here we also see her using the ‘Mike Leigh Method’. Preparation for this role spanned over months and months and began with a seven hour improvisation session. I have watched this movie over and over and every single time, her immaculate characterisation and flawless acting takes me by surprise.
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| Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) |
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
Her most commercial and universally recognised role. As a fan of the books I was delighted with her version of the sickly Dolores Umbridge. Staunton sunk perfectly into her character that was so similar to the character created within the book. Here we see Imelda Staunton in a commercial role within a fantasy film. This is an example of how well she can create a fictional character within a franchise that is internationally famous.
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| Another Year (2010) |
Another Year (2010)
In a complete contrast to her performance in the Harry Potterfranchise, here we see Imelda in her most realistic role. She only appears in this film for the first fifteen minutes as a patient in a doctors surgery suffering from depression. Once again using the ‘Mike Leigh Method’ here, Imelda Staunton’s entire body and facial mannerisms are warped under the thick mask of such a complex character.
Currently performing on stage opposite Michael Ball in Sweeney Todd, she has received incredible reviews for her role as Mrs Lovett.
Thanks for reading and let’s all keep supporting our beloved film industry.
Hannah McHaffie 