The titular character in Mike Leigh’s award-winning film is a cheerful, kindly, grandmotherly figure (magnificently played by Imelda Staunton) who, in drab and conventional 1950’s London, helps out women who are, as the expression went, “in a family way.” Vera’s services are primitive but usually effective, compassionately delivered—and entirely illegal. The ethical complexities of the situation play out in stunning fashion. Required viewing for every ethics class there ever was. “Thought-provoking” is an understatement.