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Imitation of Life   1934         N/R, 106 min. Genre: Drama Director: John M. Stahl   Cast: Claudette Colbert, Warren William, Ned Sparks, Louise Beavers, Rochelle Hudson, Fredi Washington, Alan Hale, Clarence Wilson, Henry Armetta, Henry Kolker, Paul Porcasi, Wyndham Standing, Franklin Pangborn, Dennis O'Keefe, Fred "Snowflake" Toones   This is the film adaptation of the Fannie Hurst novel about mothers Bea Pullman and Delilah Johnson (Claudette Colbert and Louise Beavers) and daughters Jessie (Rochelle Hudson as 18-year-old Jessie) and Peola (Fredi Washington as 16-year-old Peola) whose relationships become difficult. Bea and Delilah open a pancake restaurant that proves to be very successful. But, despite success in their professional lives, problems rise to the fore with their daughters. Jessie falls in love with her mother's boyfriend (Warren William). Meanwhile, light-skinned Peola decides to pass herself off as White and breaks Delilah's heart. An Academy Award nomination was received for Best Picture. Cast Claudette Colbert Beatrice Pullman Warren William Stephen Archer Ned Sparks Elmer Louise Beavers Delilah Johnson Rochelle Hudson Jessie Fredi Washington Peola Alan Hale Martin Clarence Wilson Landlord Henry Armetta Painter Henry Kolker Dr. Preston Paul Porcasi Restaurant Manager Wyndham Standing Butler Franklin Pangborn Mr. Carven