Rachel's accent

I actually had to go to IMDB to be sure because she looked somehow different in this movie and I wasn't sure it was her.

Haven't listened to much Cockney, have you? The accent Rachel had in the movie was her own + Chicago. It was NOT Cockney. Far from it, actually.

For true Cockney, see "My Fair Lady."

Maybe they wanted her for the role and she isn't good at an American accent, and her owns sounded a little too refined, so they had her do a more working class London accent?

I don't have that good an ear for the differences in English accents, but she sounded ok to me.

I guess it's like looking at clouds. You see one thing and I see another. Peace.

She sounded like Russell Brand.

Of course, actors NEVER use different accents, do they! Rachel is indeed British and has a pleasant natural speaking voice. However, the movie called for something different, which she gave. Not Cockney but certainly London-ish. In fact, she does several very good American accents in various movies, all of which are convincing.

Ultimately, can I just say that if this is the one thing that spoiled the movie for you, or unduly caught your attention, then you weren't concentrating. Her character isn't even on screen for all that long. I wonder how many folks were upset by the many well known actors who appeared as Elves - probably a more notable physical "change" than a mere accent!

If you really want to hear very different British accents from natural ones, first watch Downton, then just watch an regular interview with Michelle Dockery (posh Essex girl)!

There is real life ... and then there are movies!

I think the reason for attempting an East End accent was to make her character more working class. Her posh accent would not suit a meter maid. Sad how british class divides still exists... Even in Hollywood.