Brenda Blethyn is unrecognisable in new thriller Dragonfly - as she ditches Vera's signature red hair and trenchcoat for VERY different look
In the new movie, the actress, 79, looks worlds away from her iconic Vera role as she ditched the character's signature red hairdo and trenchcoat for short grey locks and a more laidback fit.
The drama tells the story of a woman named Colleen (Andrea Riseborough) who takes over the care for her elderly neighbour Elise (Brenda).
She believes the professionals aren't doing a good enough job, but could it be that Colleen has a hidden agenda? Or are those around them judging her without knowing the facts?
The synopsis for Dragonfly reads: 'Disgusted with the state of care that her elderly neighbor Elsie is receiving, Colleen offers to help for free.
'Over tea and through trying moments, the pair become trusted confidants despite their differences.
'But Colleen's intentions may not be exactly as they seem. As suspicions grow, a shocking act triggers a violent chain reaction that threatens to irreparably alter the lives of both women.'
The upcoming movie also stars Jason Watkins as John, Sandra Huggett as Mary, and Lolly Jones as Jane.
Following positive reviews from critics at Tribeca, the thriller already boasts an impressive 92% approval rating.
Since stepping down from her role as DCI Vera Stanhope, the star has taken on several exciting TV projects, including the upcoming historical comedy, Fools.
The actress's latest venture, which was directed by Paul Andrew Williams, was described by The Guardian as a 'stark, fierce and wonderfully acted film'.
The Film Stage shared: 'Williams and his brilliant cast create a film that is equal-parts tender and shocking, turning horror tropes on their head.'
Fans were left feeling devastated when ITV announced last year that the popular detective drama would end in 2025, after a successful 14-year run (pictured Kenneth Colley, Rebecca Benson, Matilda Ziegler, Brenda, and David in 2013)
Meanwhile, NYC Movie Guru described Brenda's performance as worthy of an award.
They said: 'What begins as a slow-burning and tender drama with shades of Mike Leigh turns into a dark and gripping Hitchcockian thriller.
'Brenda Blethyn and Andrea Riseborough give powerful and Oscar-worthy performances that ground the film in raw authenticity.'
Her latest role comes nearly a year after Brenda was seen in Newcastle, filming her final scenes for Vera.
Fans were left feeling devastated when ITV announced last year that the popular detective drama would end in 2025, after a successful 14-year run.
Dragonfly will be shown at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in August.
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