Photo: Steffman-Turgeon/Splash News.
A remake of a classic film will pretty much always divide public opinion. And, the particular reboot splitting R29 HQ into two camps this go around? The Jay Z redo of the classic 1982 musical Annie — or, rather, Cameron Diaz's upcoming portrayal of Miss Hannigan in it.
Assuming the role of the permanently boozed-up, tyrannical orphanage owner originally played on screen by Carol Burnett, Diaz's update is a far cry from the Miss Hannigan we know. Pictured on set dressed in cutoffs, a fuzzy sweater, and suede boots, the 41-year-old brings a surprising, polished edge to the film’s antagonist. And, unlike Burnett's reviled, negligee-clad version, Diaz sports some relatively tame hair and makeup, too. Great update, but is it convincing?
Of course, we’re not disputing Diaz’s transformational powers — the actress can turn any role into an award-winning performance — but we are intrigued by the message her character’s getup conveys. Does a seemingly cheap outfit of laddered tights and dodgy, market-stall jewelry imply an evil persona? Diaz seems to think so, as she recently tweeted a picture of her alter ego with the caption, “I want you to meet someone. Her name is Ms. Hannigan. She ain’t nice and she ain’t pretty.”
Produced by Jay Z and Will Smith and set for release in late 2014, the remake stars 10-year-old Quvenzhané Wallis in the titular role alongside Jaime Fox, who plays millionaire Benjamin Stacks, and Rose Byrne, as his assistant. It’s also rumored that Jay Z, an ardent fan of the 1982 version, is set to deliver the soundtrack to the reboot. So, with that said, we can probably all agree on one point: We. Can’t. Wait. (Daily Mail)