IMITATION OF LIFE:

When the film “Imitation Of Life,” was first released in 1934, the movie starred Claudette Colbert, Fredi Washington and Louise Beavers.

The film did lukewarm business at the box office despite good reviews. When the “Imitation Of Life,” was remade and re-released with Lana Turner, Juanita Moore and Susan Kohner in the starring roles, the movie became a box office smash!

Actress Lana Turner benefited off the hit movie because she took a risk and forfeited her salary in favor of a percentage.

This practice was unheard of in the movie industry during this era, especially for a female actress in the 1950’s. This savvy business move generated millions for Turner throughout her career and allowed her to live comfortably until her death in 1995.