The Canon / Parallax Editorial Archive
Curated by Pedro Neves, Founder of Parallax
Imitation of Life
Directed by Douglas Sirk
1959•2h 5m•NR•★ 7.8
Drama
Synopsis
An ambitious white actress and her devoted Black housekeeper raise their daughters together in New York, confronting racial passing, maternal sacrifice, and emotional isolation. Douglas Sirk's final American masterpiece.
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Imitation of Life
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Cinematic Profile
Douglas Sirk
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Cast & Crew
DirectorDouglas Sirk
WriterEleanore GriffinAllan Scott
CinematographyRussell Metty
MusicFrank SkinnerHenry Mancini
Principal Cast
Lana TurnerLora Meredith
John GavinSteve Archer
Sandra DeeSusie (16)
Susan KohnerSarah Jane (18)
Robert AldaAllen Loomis
Dan O'HerlihyDavid Edwards
Juanita MooreAnnie Johnson
KD
Karin DickerSarah Jane (8)Technical Specifications
Runtime2h 5m (125 mins)
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Production Details
DirectorDouglas Sirk
LanguagesEnglish
CountryUS
StudioUniversal International Pictures
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