Imitation of Life (1959) directed by Douglas Sirk
Imitation of Life is a 1959 American drama film directed by Douglas Sirk. It was Sirk’s final Hollywood film and dealt with issues of race, class and gender. Imitation of Life is the second film adaptation of Fannie Hurst’s 1933 novel of the same name. Imitation of Life (1959 film) — Wikipedia
Click below to see the movie…
link https://ok.ru/video/268719229603
However in 1934 was released the first version of the book directed by John M. Stahl that you can also see by clicking below…
Imitation of Life is a 1934 American drama film directed by John M. Stahl. The screenplay by William Hurlbut, based on Fannie Hurst’s 1933 novel of the same name, was augmented by eight additional uncredited writers, including Preston Sturges and Finley Peter Dunne.[1] The film stars Claudette Colbert, Louise Beavers, Warren William, Rochelle Hudson, and Fredi Washington.
link https://ok.ru/video/259858107043
In 2005, Imitation of Life was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry being deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant”.[2][3] It was also named by Time in 2007 as one of “The 25 Most Important Films on Race”.[4] It was nominated for Best Picture, Best Assistant Director, and Best Sound Recording at the 7th Academy Awards. Imitation of Life (1934 film) — Wikipedia
I asked the AI COPILOT the following question…
Compare the two films, the 1934 and the 1959 films, and which did more like more?
Copilot
It remarks:
Certainly! Let’s delve into a comparison of the 1934 and 1959 film adaptations of Imitation of Life. Both movies are based on Fannie Hurst’s 1933 novel, but they diverge in significant ways. Here’s a breakdown:
- 1934 Version:
- Plot: The 1934 film stays closer to Hurst’s original written words. It stars Claudette Colbert as Bea, a struggling widow who sells maple syrup to support herself and her daughter, Jessie. When an African-American woman named Delilah (played by Louise Beavers) mistakenly arrives at Bea’s door, a lifelong relationship is forged. Delilah and her light-skinned daughter, Peola, move in with Bea and Jessie. Delilah becomes a housekeeper in exchange for room and board. The story revolves around their intertwined lives, business success, and Peola’s struggle with racial identity.
- Visuals: Shot in black-and-white, the film boasts stunning gradations from white to black, with subtle details.
- Themes: Themes of motherhood, racial identity, and societal expectations are central.
- 1959 Version:
- Plot: The 1959 adaptation, directed by Douglas Sirk, takes a different approach. It stars Lana Turner as Lora, a widow aspiring to be an actress. She befriends Annie (played by Juanita Moore), an African-American woman who moves into Lora’s apartment with her daughter, Sarah Jane. Unlike the 1934 version, Lora achieves fame and wealth independently, while Annie remains a loyal servant. Sarah Jane, who can “pass” as white, grapples with her racial identity.
- Visuals: This version is a colorful feast for the eyes, showcasing Turner in glamorous costumes and jewels.
- Themes: The film retains themes of mother-daughter relationships and racial identity but adds a soap opera veneer.
Personal Preference: While both versions have their merits, it ultimately depends on your taste. The 1934 version offers a more faithful adaptation, while the 1959 version emphasizes Lana Turner’s star power and introduces a contemporary twist. Which one resonates with you more?
Learn more: Learn more: consult: pilotonline.com — dailykos.com
