Mike Leigh abortion film scoops Venice film awards

Mike Leigh's film, "Vera Drake", has been named best picture at the Venice Film Festival.

Imelda Staunton, star of the drama about a working class woman who performs back street abortions in 1950s Britain, also scooped up the award for best actress, at the Festival.

In the film, Staunton's character performs illegal abortions in order to help women who find themselves in trouble, as opposed to carrying out the procedures for financial gain.

The drama raises some difficult questions about the abortion debate and reflects Leigh's previous films about the struggle of everyday life in Britain.

"The audience must walk away with a debate and struggle with it. These things are not black and white, said Leigh, reflecting on the film's message.

"Vera Drake", which was overlooked at the Cannes film festival, faced competition from 21 other films in the category of best film.

Applauding the judges' decision, Leigh said:

"In a cynical world, it is a wonderful thing and most reassuring when low-budget, serious, committed, independent European films are recognised and encouraged in this way," said Leigh, on accepting the award.

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