Imitation of Life (1934)

Synopsis: The first (and more faithful) screen adaptation of Fannie Hurst's eponymous novel, with Colbert and Beavers as the two mothers whose respective hearts are broken by their daughters. After the two... The first (and more faithful) screen adaptation of Fannie Hurst's eponymous novel, with Colbert and Beavers as the two mothers whose respective hearts are broken by their daughters. After the two successfully market the African-American Beavers' prize-winning pancakes, their material success can't keep Beavers' lighter-skinned daughter from rejecting her in favor of "passing" in white society. At the same time, Colbert and her daughter fall in love with the same man, and Colbert is forced to reject him. Remade by melodrama master Douglas Sirk in 1959. Academy Award Nominations: Best Picture, Best Sound. [More]

Starring: Claudette Colbert, Warren William, Ned Sparks, Louise Beavers

Starring: Claudette Colbert, Warren William, Ned Sparks, Louise Beavers, Juanita Quigley, Marilyn Knowlden, Rochelle Hudson, Sebie Hendricks, Dorothy Black, Fredi Washington, Alan Hale, Clarence Wilson, Henry Armetta, Henry Kolker, Wyndham Standing, Alice Ardell, Paul Porcasi, William B. Davidson, G.P. Huntley, Noel Francis, Walter Walker, Franklin Pangborn, Tyler Brooke, William Austin, Alma Tell, Hazel Washington, Lenita Lane, Barry Norton, Joyce Compton, Reverend Gregg, Curry Lee, Claire McDowell, Madame Sul-te-wan, Stuart Johnston, Fred "Snowflake" Toones, Hattie McDaniel, Dennis O'Keefe

Director: John M. Stahl

Director: John M. Stahl
Producer: Carl Laemmle
Screenwriter: William Hurlbut
Story: Fannie Hurst

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