Woman lives in her van in London for 15 years. Year 2015 Theatrical Release 2015-12-04 Video Release 2016-04-19 Studio Sony Pictures Classics Genre Comedy MPAA Rating PG-13 CARA a brief unsettling image Color Color Runtime 104 Animated Live-Action Full Synopsis Downton Abbey's Dame Maggie Smith, a two-time Oscar R winner, recreates one of her most celebrated roles the singular Miss Shepherd in TriStar's The Lady in the Van, Alan Bennett's big-screen comedic adaptation of his own iconic memoir and honored stage play. Bennett's story is based on the true story of Miss Shepherd, a woman of uncertain origins who temporarily parked her van in Bennett's London driveway and proceeded to live there for 15 years. What begins as a begrudged favor becomes a relationship that will change both their lives. Filmed on the street and in the house where Bennett and Miss Shepherd lived all those years, acclaimed director Nicholas Hytner reunites with Bennett The Madness of King George, The History Boys to bring this touching, poignant, and life-affirming story to the screen. Director Nicholas Hytner Cast Nicholas Hytner; Maggie Smith; Alex Jennings; James Corden; Dominic Cooper; Jim Broadbent; Frances de la Tour; Dermot Crowley; Gwen Taylor; Samuel Barnett; Richard Banks