IT’S A HARD KNOCK LIFE … TO REMAKE ANNIE AGAIN?

The rumors began a while ago that a deal to remake our beloved movie classic Annie at Columbia/Sony Pictures was in the works, but now Will Smith’s Overbook Entertainment has made the official announcement.

Will Smith’s company will remake the classic with his daughter Willow playing the well-known fiery redheaded orphan Annie.  Jay – Z, whose label produced Willow Smith’s hit single Whip My Hair, is on board to provide music for the film.  At this point, it is unknown whether the original material from the Broadway musical (music by Charles Strous, lyrics by Martin Charnin, book by Thomas Meehan) will be reinvented as was the case when Jay-Z released the song Hard-Knock Life a few years back catering to a hipper generation.

One can’t help but notice that Smith’s Overbrook team recently reimagined the Karate Kid which was used as a vehicle to help launch his son Jayden’s acting career. (Not to mention, Jay Z and Will Smith recently partnered to produce the hit Broadway musical Fela. ) It seems that this partnership is fueled by the intent of Smith and Jay-Z to develop and produce many projects, primarily motion pictures in the coming years.

Will this meeting-of-the-minds simply become a remake- fueled family business or will we see original content starring actors whose last name isn’t Smith.  The kids have got talent and this industry is no fool to young stars getting a little help from Daddy Warbucks to kickstart their careers. Remaking a classic is always a risk but something tells me Smith is betting his bottom dollar it will be a success. Here’s to hoping this Annie still shines like top of the Chrysler Building!