Still from Imitation of Life — Imitation of Life (1934) — John M. StahlPhotographed by Merritt B. Gerstad

John M. Stahl

Imitation of Life

Name: Imitation of Life
Genre: Drama, Romance
Released: 1934
Duration: 111 min

United States / English / 1934 / 1h 51m

Not streamingNot currently on the Criterion Channel.

Drama Romance

Criterion Collection: Spine №1167
Letterboxd: 3.53/5·7.1K ratings·1.9K reviewson Letterboxd
Connections: View Connections

Synopsis

A struggling widow and her daughter take in a black housekeeper and her fair-skinned daughter. The two women start a successful business but face familial, identity, and racial issues along the way.

Ngozi Onwurah
Jul 2026

Credits

Crew

DirectorJohn M. Stahl

WriterWilliam Hurlbut

CinematographerMerritt B. Gerstad

ComposerHeinz Roemheld

EditorPhilip Cahn, Maurice Wright

ProducerCarl Laemmle Jr.

Cast

Claudette Colbertas Beatrice 'Bea' Pullman

Louise Beaversas Delilah Johnson

Warren Williamas Stephen 'Steve' Archer

Rochelle Hudsonas Jessie Pullman, Age 18

Ned Sparksas Elmer Smith

Fredi Washingtonas Peola Johnson, Age 19

Juanita Quigleyas Baby Jessie Pullman, Age 3

Alan Haleas Martin the Furniture Man

Henry Armettaas The Painter

Wyndham Standingas Beatrice's Butler Jarvis

Joyce Comptonas Young Woman at Party (uncredited)

Noel Francisas Mrs. Eden (uncredited)

Jane Withersas Peola's Frontrow Classmate (uncredited)

Marcia Mae Jonesas Peola's Frontrow Classmate (uncredited)

Henry Kolkeras Dr. Preston (uncredited)

Hattie McDanielas Woman at Funeral (uncredited)

William B. Davidsonas Man Buying Cigar (uncredited)

William Austinas Englishman at Party (uncredited)

G.P. Huntleyas James (uncredited)

Tyler Brookeas Tipsy Man at Party (uncredited)

Imitation of Life

Synopsis

Credits

Crew

Cast

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