This film was really ahead of its time in its criticism and questioning of racism, compared to other films of the era that have scenes/lines that are racist. It's refreshing to see problems of racial equality and justice acknowledged in a 1934 film. Louise Beavers' performance was so emotional and powerful, it felt so real and personal. The explorations of mother-daughter relationships was also really well done, and it's not a very common subject to be explored in film. The performances of the actors made me really absorbed into the film. The pacing also added to this. Overall a really powerful and unexpected film, that will definitely stick with me.