First of all I really like both the 1982 version and the 1999 version- the reason why I do prefer the 1982 version is because that in particular is a childhood favourite. I do admit there was a time when I didn't really like this, but now considering that it was a TV remake, and that it is a lot more faithful to the stage play, it is not as bad as I initially thought. True it is too short, and despite her truly beautiful voice I just wasn't sure about Audra MacDonald as Grace. For my tastebuds, it was a tad sugary sweet at times for my liking. However, it does look lovely, and the music is marvellous, and the same with the 1982 version. The performances are great too. I really loved Aileen Quinn,(and I wish people would stop making horrible comments about her) but Alicia Morton is closer than what Annie is like in the stage show, in terms of age, and while both girls were wonderful, Morton has got the better voice. Annie's friends were well done too, but the scene stealer has to be Kathy Bates as Miss Hannigan, just like the wonderful Carol Burnett. There were times when she was absolutely hilarious, and Victor Garber while just lacking the gruffness of Albert Finney was a delight as Daddy Warbucks. Alan Cumming and Kristen Chenoweth were fine as Rooster and Lily, and I also much enjoyed the portrayals of Tim Curry(who is my favourite actor of all time and vastly underrated as an actor) and Bernadette Peters. This version is closer to the stage musical, and has a real Christmas feel to it. The problem I had with the 1982 version were John Huston's direction, and I know they changed the ending, but to be fair, the 1982 version is NOT the first musical adaptation to take liberties with the stage musical, how about My Fair Lady and Oklahoma! Overall, seeing this again recently proved my initial opinion of it wrong. 7/10 Bethany Cox
104 Reviews
Orphan Red
southdavid7 April 2021
Disney Plus has this excellent adaptation of "Annie" as a stand-alone movie within its ranks at the moment, and my alphabetical trawl through the site has now landed on it.
Little Orphan Annie (Alicia Morton) is temporarily reprieved from her life of drudgery at Miss Hannigan's (Kathy Bates) orphanage, when as part of a P. R stunt, she spends Christmas with local magnate and millionaire Oliver Warbucks (Victor Garber) who eventually comes to care for her. Two con-artists, Daniel Hannigan (Alan Cumming) and Lily St Regis (Kristen Chenoworth) spy an opportunity to make some money, so attempt to convince Warbucks that they are Annie's long missing parents.
I appreciated the way that this adaptation of the musical was set up. It's obviously done on a budget, so the bones of the film are single sets that look like they could be the stage production. Much of the bigger set pieces, such as "Hard Knock Life" and "I Think I'm Gonna Like It Here" look like they're lifted, choreography and all, from a stage version. There are some wider shots though, using what I suspect is a combination of back lot work and location shooting in L. A.
The cast is particularly impressive. Bates is primarily an dramatic actor, rather than a musical star (though she has song several times and is good here) but the triumvirate of Garber, Cumming and Chenoworth and all legendary Broadway performers and seeing them together on one film is pretty special. It's unfortunate that Alicia Morton hasn't been working much since, as she's good here. Sarah Hyland features as one of the other orphans and is given quite a bit to do.
It's really a lovely version and I'm glad to see that the number of film performances of musicals (even though this strictly isn't one of those) being recorded for prosperity is growing. I can't really remember any of the other version of the story, so for now, I'll just conclude by saying that this was an enjoyable time.
Little Orphan Annie (Alicia Morton) is temporarily reprieved from her life of drudgery at Miss Hannigan's (Kathy Bates) orphanage, when as part of a P. R stunt, she spends Christmas with local magnate and millionaire Oliver Warbucks (Victor Garber) who eventually comes to care for her. Two con-artists, Daniel Hannigan (Alan Cumming) and Lily St Regis (Kristen Chenoworth) spy an opportunity to make some money, so attempt to convince Warbucks that they are Annie's long missing parents.
I appreciated the way that this adaptation of the musical was set up. It's obviously done on a budget, so the bones of the film are single sets that look like they could be the stage production. Much of the bigger set pieces, such as "Hard Knock Life" and "I Think I'm Gonna Like It Here" look like they're lifted, choreography and all, from a stage version. There are some wider shots though, using what I suspect is a combination of back lot work and location shooting in L. A.
The cast is particularly impressive. Bates is primarily an dramatic actor, rather than a musical star (though she has song several times and is good here) but the triumvirate of Garber, Cumming and Chenoworth and all legendary Broadway performers and seeing them together on one film is pretty special. It's unfortunate that Alicia Morton hasn't been working much since, as she's good here. Sarah Hyland features as one of the other orphans and is given quite a bit to do.
It's really a lovely version and I'm glad to see that the number of film performances of musicals (even though this strictly isn't one of those) being recorded for prosperity is growing. I can't really remember any of the other version of the story, so for now, I'll just conclude by saying that this was an enjoyable time.
A Worthwhile Watch!
JWLJN9 November 1999
This one is a tough one to call when comparing to the 1982 version, however it is still very good in it's own right and is probably the *closest* transition from stage to screen this show will ever receive.
When comparing this to the 1982 theatrical version, it's easy to be a little disappointed. Kathy Bates puts in a good bid as Miss Hannigan, but it's impossible to tell whether the character is nicer or meaner than Carol Burnett's version. While Bates version seems nicer all around, she does not turn over a new leaf at the end nor does she oppose the murder of poor Annie.
Some notable omissions from this version include no Punjab or Asp, Rooster's "Cock-a-doodle-doo", the Hannigan-Warbucks "Sign" number, Annie's curls, and the emphasis on "Tomorrow".
Overall, it is an enjoyable watch, however if you are looking to see the very best version, I'd recommend the 1982 classic.
When comparing this to the 1982 theatrical version, it's easy to be a little disappointed. Kathy Bates puts in a good bid as Miss Hannigan, but it's impossible to tell whether the character is nicer or meaner than Carol Burnett's version. While Bates version seems nicer all around, she does not turn over a new leaf at the end nor does she oppose the murder of poor Annie.
Some notable omissions from this version include no Punjab or Asp, Rooster's "Cock-a-doodle-doo", the Hannigan-Warbucks "Sign" number, Annie's curls, and the emphasis on "Tomorrow".
Overall, it is an enjoyable watch, however if you are looking to see the very best version, I'd recommend the 1982 classic.
superb - wish it had been longer!
kevinmcg21 September 2003
This adaption of "Annie" is an excellent piece of film making. The casting,
direction, writing, choreography all come together in perfect balance to entertain people of all ages.
My only wish is that budget and time constraints would have allowed for the
entire original story and score to remain in tact. The Hooverville / "We'd Like to Thank You Mr. Hoover" sequence in the original stage musical was perfect in
showing the effects of the depression, as well as giving us the introduction to Sandy. I only hope that future TV musicals allow the time for the full production, much like the 1993 version of "Gypsy" starring Bette Midler.
I've noticed that some people have commented about the multi-racial casting
and how secretary Grace would never have been a black woman. Historically,
this is most likely correct, but again let's keep in mind that this is musical theatre and for people to just start singing with invisible musicians isn't very realistic either. I'm glad to see that Audra MacDonald was cast because she has the
perfect acting skills, personality and voice to play Grace. Even though many of these stories are traditionally "white", the ability to cast multi-ethnic roles only enriches the piece and is completely appropriate in our modern society.
direction, writing, choreography all come together in perfect balance to entertain people of all ages.
My only wish is that budget and time constraints would have allowed for the
entire original story and score to remain in tact. The Hooverville / "We'd Like to Thank You Mr. Hoover" sequence in the original stage musical was perfect in
showing the effects of the depression, as well as giving us the introduction to Sandy. I only hope that future TV musicals allow the time for the full production, much like the 1993 version of "Gypsy" starring Bette Midler.
I've noticed that some people have commented about the multi-racial casting
and how secretary Grace would never have been a black woman. Historically,
this is most likely correct, but again let's keep in mind that this is musical theatre and for people to just start singing with invisible musicians isn't very realistic either. I'm glad to see that Audra MacDonald was cast because she has the
perfect acting skills, personality and voice to play Grace. Even though many of these stories are traditionally "white", the ability to cast multi-ethnic roles only enriches the piece and is completely appropriate in our modern society.
The sun HAS come out on a new "Annie"
gerry-russell-1398 November 1999
I loved this version! It was just as good as the original starring Albert Finney and Carol Burnett. It follows the original Broadway version instead of it's predecessor of the silver screen. Kathy Bates was maybe a little nicer than Burnett's Hannigan but she still had that mean-lady aura she had in "Misery". The 3-time Tony-Award-winning First lady of the Broadway musical theater Audra Ann McDonald's portrayal of Grace Farrell put her on the road to becoming a big star in Hollywood as well, and Victor Garber (of "Titanic" and tv's "Invisible Child") makes for an even better Oliver Warbucks than Albert Finney. Kristin Chenoweth is a perfectly ditzy, empty-headed Lily St. Regis ("Named from the hotel") and is a fresh, promising face for Hollywood as well. And let's not forget Alicia Morton's sweet-smiled Annie ("Leapin' lizards!"). But the one who really stole the show (at least for a few minutes) is Broadway star Alan Cumming as Rooster Hannigan (Tony-Award winner for 97-98's "Cabaret" revival) with his show-stopping rendition of "Easy Street". The arrangement for the score in this version was even better than the original version also so the soundtrack should sell a couple of million copies at least. Kathy Bates and Alan Cumming should hopefully get Emmy nominations! Yes, "the sun HAS come out" on "Annie".
Surprisingly superior to the 1982 version.
adamp-616 January 2002
Warning: Spoilers
Since this was a TV production my wife goaded me into renting for our daughter, I had pretty low hopes for it, especially since it was a remake of a well-loved classic motion picture. But I was shocked and amazed when I wound up enjoying it more than the previous version.
(I guess the following could be viewed as containing spoilers, so consider yourself warned) For starters, this one feels much more like a stage play in which the inclusion of songs makes a little more sense. Kathy Bates' version of Mrs. Hannigan is sober, and more clothed, which will make parents more grateful. and they got rid of that ridiculous chase sequence, opting for a more low-key ending that takes place entirely in the Warbucks home. Thankfully.
Everything that I didn't like about the original movie has been removed, making this a much stronger film. Heck, I even get a little choked up at the end. And that's coming from a 20-something cynical guy. So take that for what it's worth.
(I guess the following could be viewed as containing spoilers, so consider yourself warned) For starters, this one feels much more like a stage play in which the inclusion of songs makes a little more sense. Kathy Bates' version of Mrs. Hannigan is sober, and more clothed, which will make parents more grateful. and they got rid of that ridiculous chase sequence, opting for a more low-key ending that takes place entirely in the Warbucks home. Thankfully.
Everything that I didn't like about the original movie has been removed, making this a much stronger film. Heck, I even get a little choked up at the end. And that's coming from a 20-something cynical guy. So take that for what it's worth.
Leads with the chin...
Balthazar-530 December 2007
Like the ridiculous notion that Ridley Scott was ostensibly toying with a few years ago of remaking 'Citizen Kane' this re-adaptation of 'Annie' pales beside John Huston's magnificent film of this stage musical.
However, Rob Marshall before 'Chicago' is clearly very much in charge of the theatrics, and his choreography and mise en scene is fine. The problem is simply in the casting. Almost without exception, the roles are, simply, too big for the players. In singing & dancing, Alicia Morton can stand beside Aileen Quinn, but not in charisma and screen presence. Victor Garber and, particularly, Audra McDonald slip further down the comparison ladder, as does Alan Cumming. While Kathy Bates is no Carol Burnett, however, she does give a certain gravitas to Miss Hannigan. Only improvement, as far as I can see is that Sandy makes a better mutt.
For cinephiles, also, there is a major let-down in the substitution of the anaemic 'NYC' for the sensational 'Let's go to the movies' sequence in Huston's film. All of the above notwithstanding, if we remember it is only a TV movie, with all of the budgetary implications of that, it is an honourable effort, but why would anyone want to watch this rather that Huston's minor masterpiece.
However, Rob Marshall before 'Chicago' is clearly very much in charge of the theatrics, and his choreography and mise en scene is fine. The problem is simply in the casting. Almost without exception, the roles are, simply, too big for the players. In singing & dancing, Alicia Morton can stand beside Aileen Quinn, but not in charisma and screen presence. Victor Garber and, particularly, Audra McDonald slip further down the comparison ladder, as does Alan Cumming. While Kathy Bates is no Carol Burnett, however, she does give a certain gravitas to Miss Hannigan. Only improvement, as far as I can see is that Sandy makes a better mutt.
For cinephiles, also, there is a major let-down in the substitution of the anaemic 'NYC' for the sensational 'Let's go to the movies' sequence in Huston's film. All of the above notwithstanding, if we remember it is only a TV movie, with all of the budgetary implications of that, it is an honourable effort, but why would anyone want to watch this rather that Huston's minor masterpiece.
Disney Proves You don't need $60,000,000 To Make a great Musical
Christmas-Reviewer28 January 2006
This film proves that Television can make great musicals. In 1982 Columbia released the much anticipated "Annie" which was based on the Broadway musical. The score had already 2 well known songs by the time that film was released. Those songs are "Tomorrow" and "It's a Hard Knock Life". However that film failed to really catch on! It was a minor hit but the film took a critical pounding! The film only made money after it was sold to Cable & Broadcast Television.
In 1999 Disney/Abc/Columbia gave us this television version which is a this version which is a far superior product.
The film follows closely the Broadway Show and that is plus. This film is also runs 30 minutes shorter than the 1982 film.
In this film the major number is "NYC". this musical sequence there is a cameo by the best known Broadway Annie which of course Andrea Mcardle.
Running 90 Minutes the film avoided the major problems that the theatrical film had. With 1/4 of the original films budget the film stays well grounded. The sets are not over done. The film also streamlined the subplots.
The film is well worth watching. The cast was great. In 2014 there was another theatrical remake. In a few more years I am sure that Broadway will once again have a revival.
In the 3 "Annie" musicals that have been made this one is the best.
In 1999 Disney/Abc/Columbia gave us this television version which is a this version which is a far superior product.
The film follows closely the Broadway Show and that is plus. This film is also runs 30 minutes shorter than the 1982 film.
In this film the major number is "NYC". this musical sequence there is a cameo by the best known Broadway Annie which of course Andrea Mcardle.
Running 90 Minutes the film avoided the major problems that the theatrical film had. With 1/4 of the original films budget the film stays well grounded. The sets are not over done. The film also streamlined the subplots.
The film is well worth watching. The cast was great. In 2014 there was another theatrical remake. In a few more years I am sure that Broadway will once again have a revival.
In the 3 "Annie" musicals that have been made this one is the best.
More True
gro26 November 2002
Certainly the TV version is not without flaws compared to the various stage presentations. It does however stand out as being infinitely more watchable than the 1982 Huston version which shifted the conclusion to July 4 primarily as I dimly recall due to problems in getting access to the Grace Mansion. I will avoid commenting on the choreography but wonder what was going through his mind in the staging. The 1999 version benefits from a better Warbucks in Garber and McDonald's voice which soared beyond Reinking. The ending which was not over powering at least avoided the ridiculous movie ending. Overall, the 1982 movie had so much overacting and poor decisions that anything had to look better in comparison. Its been a while since I first saw both of these products but it was fun to see the TV version again recently.
Only for "Easy Street"
oleander-35 July 2000
I know people are saying this shouldn't be compared to the '82 "Annie," so I'll try to refrain from doing that, though I haven't seen the Broadway version, so it'll be hard. First, I have to say I grew up watching the '82 version, and it was my favourite movie. I had the whole thing memorized. I didn't even know they'd made a new "Annie" until one of my friends mentioned she'd seen it. She'd never seen the first movie, but she didn't like this one. I can't say I was too fond of it either. The fact that there were only 7 orphans in the whole orphanage was kinda weird. I mean, I know in the stage version there were the same number, but this is a MOVIE. On stage you can't exactly have 30 girls running all over the place, but movie versions of theatrical productions should be more realistic. While Kathy Bates is a great actress, why couldn't she have been meaner? Carol Burnett was hilarious as the drunk, man-chasing woman. And those kids wouldn't have been scared of her (Bates) if all she did was threaten them. They probably could've beaten her up. I thought Alicia Morton sang well, but could it have hurt to curl her hair? Something else that bugged me was that all the characters were devoid of any personality, except for Lily and Rooster. Even though there were only 7 of them, all the orphans' personalities seemed the same, so I couldn't keep them straight. Not that it mattered. But I LOVED Roseanne Sorrentino as Pepper in the '82 version, because she made the character mean and tough. This Pepper didn't seem menacing at all. Too bad, because she's my favourite orphan. Other people mentioned this, so I won't go into it: Oliver Warbuck's and Annie's relationship seemed nonexistent. If they had added maybe an extra half an hour to the movie it would've been nice, since then we could have seen more of the characters interacting, and it wouldn't have seemed so rushed. However, there was one thing I loved about this version. Alan Cummings and the "Easy Street" song. I liked Tim Curry a lot (who wouldn't?), but I thought the Easy Street number was better done by all in this one than in the '82 film. The dancing was good, and Lily, Miss Hannigan and Rooster seemed smoother and more evil, like the money-grabbers that they were. I would buy the soundtrack just for that song. So, all in all I was somewhat disappointed. I mean, I enjoyed it once, but I wouldn't twice. (Except for "Easy Street" which I watched about 10 times.)
Anyone who hates this movie is crazy!
SMicali23 November 2002
This movie is far superior over the 1980s movie. An excellent cast and a movie that sticks much closer to the original Broadway show. Alicia Morton is a delightful child actor with a great voice. Victor Garber (one of my all time favorite actors) was a wonderful Daddy Warbucks. Alan Cumming is perfect casting as Rooster. The only negative I have of this movie is Kathy Bates. She was the weakest part of the movie.
So those of you who hated this movie and loved the 1980s version need to have your heads examined!
So those of you who hated this movie and loved the 1980s version need to have your heads examined!
Good, but unnecessary
aholster-120 January 2008
I found the acting was good, but not as good as the original. Also, the songs, staging, and virtually everything were kept precisely the same, which made this remake unnecessary.
The new actress playing Annie didn't have the same charm as the original, but had a good singing voice. Kathy Bates is one of my favorite actresses, so the opportunity to see her singing and dancing was quite a pleasure. That being said, she is no Carol Burnett, who was divine in the original.
My daughter thoroughly enjoyed this movie, and I enjoyed it as well, but it paled in comparison to the original.
The new actress playing Annie didn't have the same charm as the original, but had a good singing voice. Kathy Bates is one of my favorite actresses, so the opportunity to see her singing and dancing was quite a pleasure. That being said, she is no Carol Burnett, who was divine in the original.
My daughter thoroughly enjoyed this movie, and I enjoyed it as well, but it paled in comparison to the original.
A movie made for a new generation
bartlez10 November 2006
Warning: Spoilers
There are several aspects of this movie that I would like to comment on. Mostly I will compare this movie to the movie Annie from the 1980's. That acting, although it is better, fell short of my expectations. I loved how in the 1982 movie Annie was a spunky, unruly girl with matted hair and the most endearing smile I've seen in along time. I think that the actress was able to capture the true nature of Annie, who lived on the streets and in terrible conditions. As for the new movie, Annie is adorable, no doubt but she's rich adorable. Her shiny hair and perfect white teeth don't force us to look past it all and really love Annie for her personality. A second aspect I'd like to address is Mr Warbucks. In the newer movie he is kind of a push over, no offense but the actor who plays him is a sweet man, with hardly a bad bone in his body. But the first movie the man is arrogant, conceited and mean. His heart change is believable. As far as vocals go, I feel that the first movie is more endearing due to the slight lack in vocal talent. Annie, who's voice is decent for a girl her age, is adorable, and Mr Warbucks stumbling baritone is priceless! I don't think Annie (1999) even comes close to being as good as its predecessor. If you are going to introduce your kids to this great movie, do so the old fashioned way. Don't spoil them with a rich kid rose colored glasses view of poverty and love.
A great version!
talliestar14 December 2004
I have to say, I am an avid Annie fan. I first saw the 1982 version, like most people and I loved it. I then saw the stage musical twice and loved that too. There were a lot of differences in the stories on the stage and on the film. Then I saw the 1999 version and I thought that it was great, about as great as the 1982 one but with better actors. I now have both film versions on video and I have seen both many times and I can honestly say that in my opinion the 1999 one is far better. The 1982 one is bigger, with more action and generally a larger production, but that is to be expected as the 1999 one was only a TV movie and with a much smaller budget. I like Alicia Morton a lot more as I think she is perfect for the part. Aileen Quinn was good for the spunky, tough side of Annie but she wasn't really very sweet and was not at all good vocally. One thing that has stood out for me with the 1999 version is the music and orchestration - I have never really noticed the quality of the music (not the vocals, the orchestra) in anything before this. Basically I love the 1999 version as I think it captures the story wonderfully. The 1982 version as also very good but they tailed off the original story too much and made too Hollywood-y for me, so I recommend the 1999 version overall.
Annie
studioAT25 June 2023
It might not be the version of 'Annie' that everyone knows potentially, or indeed loves, but I thought it was a conscise and effective offering from Disney.
It's quick, it covers the big numbers we all know and love with aplomb, and all the roles are well cast.
It's a TV film version that doesn't look like it was made in a hurry or on the cheap, and Alicia Morton is perfectly lovely in the central role. Not over the top or flashy, in fact she's very genuine.
All in all I'd recommend people check this version out, if only to compare and contrast how the numbers are produced/sound and to compare performances.
At 83 mins, this flew by.
It's quick, it covers the big numbers we all know and love with aplomb, and all the roles are well cast.
It's a TV film version that doesn't look like it was made in a hurry or on the cheap, and Alicia Morton is perfectly lovely in the central role. Not over the top or flashy, in fact she's very genuine.
All in all I'd recommend people check this version out, if only to compare and contrast how the numbers are produced/sound and to compare performances.
At 83 mins, this flew by.
Nice adaptation of the classic musical
lisafordeay29 January 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Annie came out in 1999 and features Victor Garber, Audra McDonald,Kirsten Chenoweth, Kathy Bates and Alan Cummings. Directed by Rob Marshall (Mary Poppins Returns and Into The Woods),this remake is a shot for shot(almost) of the 80s Annie and it tells the story of a young girl named Annie who lives at the orphanage that the cruel Miss Hannigan(Bates) owns. But when a kind hearted millionaire named Oliver Warbucks(Garber) is looking for an orphan to mind over the Christmas season,Annie gets the opportunity to go and stay with Mr Warbucks. However Miss Hannigan uses her scheming younger brother Rooster(Alan Cummings) and his girlfriend (Chenoworth) to pose as Annie's parents to get money. Will Annie escape the orphanage and find a family?.
Also starring a very young Sarah Hyland and Lalaine(Lizzie Maguire fame) this adaptation of Annie was good. The music is memorable from Tomorrow,Its A Hard Knock Life,I Think I'm Gonna Like It Here etc.
If you love the musical Annie then check it out
Also starring a very young Sarah Hyland and Lalaine(Lizzie Maguire fame) this adaptation of Annie was good. The music is memorable from Tomorrow,Its A Hard Knock Life,I Think I'm Gonna Like It Here etc.
If you love the musical Annie then check it out
ANnie the Movie 1999
jillianlowel3 April 2005
this movie was awesome.. I saw it a few years back but I realize that Anni is my fav movie.. the new one! Erin Adams - Tessie- has an amazing voice.. and so does the little girl who plays Anni- i wish i saw them in more movies, id definitely go see them. Annie is a classic movie that I am inspired by now that i am taking theatre. I still cant believe how awesome that movie is, even though i saw it a very long time ago. well about 5 years. anyhow i hope this Hus inspired those who haven't seen it to go rent or buy it. I could rant and rave about this movie all cay.. its one of my favourites.you really should go see it. Its bright and colourful and has great songs.
It was OK
alinhoalisson154 March 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Let me start by saying I was unhappy with the 1982 version. I've hated the way they've handled the songs and replaced the original Broadway ones with generic ones. So, obviously, I was hoping this version was going to be better, well, it wasn't. Actually, the only thing it has better than the 1982 version are how the songs are handled, the rest is just better on the older one.
My first issue with this movie is the casting. I understand Annie was originally played by a blond (Andrea McArdle). Yet, the Broadway musical still liked to remind us that the character was, indeed, red headed. Why did they cast a brunette to play Annie? Then, we have the racially diverse orphans and Grace, who's now black. Seriously, this story is set on the 30's, it was completely unlikely for the time to have racially diverse orphanages, much less racially diverse romance between powerful figures. Finally, who was the genius that decided to cast Kathy Bates to play Miss Hannigan? She does not look like her original incarnation on Broadway, much less the 1982 incarnation. I also find it impressive how all the orphans remain beautiful, pink-cheeked, well-dressed girls, even though they're supposed to be poor.
My second issue with the movie is the plot alterations. Why didn't they include Miss Hannigan being an alcoholic? It makes no sense, later on the movie, Rooster pulls off a knife and outright implies he's gonna slit Annie's throat. Then, we have Lily, who does absolutely NOTHING in the movie, she's just there. The role of Annie's fake mom is given to Hannigan, which makes even less sense than the previous change. How did Annie, the girl who spent her entire life hating this woman and knows what she's like, not notice she was posing as her mother? I will never know. But wait, but there's more. Instead of giving Lily an actual role, they have decided she was gonna be the one to ruin Rooster and Hannigan's plan. Way to go, writers! Oh, and also, Sandy does absolutely nothing in this film, he just follows Annie around, barks at fake Annie's parents, and that's it. This just blows compared to the 1982 version, where he actually helped saving both Annie's and Warbuck's lives.
Now, my biggest issue with this movie: It has zero character development. Things happen so fast, it's almost unbelievable how characters like each other. When Grace comes to pick Annie up, she just decides to take the first girl she sees, Annie does NOTHING to win her over. Then, Annie and Mr. Warburck's relationship. It starts with Annie asking to watch him working, then cut to a musical number, then they're suddenly all Father-Daughter figure. To top it off, Sandy comes in right at the end and jumps over Mr. Warbuck's car. Grace just says "Well, sir, you've always wanted a dog!" and that's it: Warbucks and Sandy are great friends! Really, now? But despite all the issues, I think this movie is still really enjoyable. It would've been perfect, had it followed 1982's version and fixed the musical numbers. Sadly, it didn't happen. But at least, most of it was very faithful to the original Broadway production, which I respect Disney for.
My first issue with this movie is the casting. I understand Annie was originally played by a blond (Andrea McArdle). Yet, the Broadway musical still liked to remind us that the character was, indeed, red headed. Why did they cast a brunette to play Annie? Then, we have the racially diverse orphans and Grace, who's now black. Seriously, this story is set on the 30's, it was completely unlikely for the time to have racially diverse orphanages, much less racially diverse romance between powerful figures. Finally, who was the genius that decided to cast Kathy Bates to play Miss Hannigan? She does not look like her original incarnation on Broadway, much less the 1982 incarnation. I also find it impressive how all the orphans remain beautiful, pink-cheeked, well-dressed girls, even though they're supposed to be poor.
My second issue with the movie is the plot alterations. Why didn't they include Miss Hannigan being an alcoholic? It makes no sense, later on the movie, Rooster pulls off a knife and outright implies he's gonna slit Annie's throat. Then, we have Lily, who does absolutely NOTHING in the movie, she's just there. The role of Annie's fake mom is given to Hannigan, which makes even less sense than the previous change. How did Annie, the girl who spent her entire life hating this woman and knows what she's like, not notice she was posing as her mother? I will never know. But wait, but there's more. Instead of giving Lily an actual role, they have decided she was gonna be the one to ruin Rooster and Hannigan's plan. Way to go, writers! Oh, and also, Sandy does absolutely nothing in this film, he just follows Annie around, barks at fake Annie's parents, and that's it. This just blows compared to the 1982 version, where he actually helped saving both Annie's and Warbuck's lives.
Now, my biggest issue with this movie: It has zero character development. Things happen so fast, it's almost unbelievable how characters like each other. When Grace comes to pick Annie up, she just decides to take the first girl she sees, Annie does NOTHING to win her over. Then, Annie and Mr. Warburck's relationship. It starts with Annie asking to watch him working, then cut to a musical number, then they're suddenly all Father-Daughter figure. To top it off, Sandy comes in right at the end and jumps over Mr. Warbuck's car. Grace just says "Well, sir, you've always wanted a dog!" and that's it: Warbucks and Sandy are great friends! Really, now? But despite all the issues, I think this movie is still really enjoyable. It would've been perfect, had it followed 1982's version and fixed the musical numbers. Sadly, it didn't happen. But at least, most of it was very faithful to the original Broadway production, which I respect Disney for.
Bravo Disney!!
carolvin22 November 1999
This film was wonderful. It had perfect casting in every role. Alicia is a wonderful Annie who has a beautiful voice and was a touching Annie, she seemed like a real little girl. Audra, Victor, Alan, Kathy, Andrea and Kristin were awesome. It was nice to see an Annie that made the characters real people instead of cartoon characters. The new orchestrations and movie version of Annie was refreshing, it was like watching it for the first time and listening to new songs. I noticed people comparing this film to the 1982 film version, thinking it was supposed to be a remake of that. This movie is based on the Broadway show which made it's debut in 1977, the characters like Punjab and the Asp do not exist in the stage production nor do songs like Dumb Dog, Sandy, I Think I'm Gonna Like It Here. Those changes were made strictly for the 1982 film. The new film is very true to the stage show, much more so than the original film which in my opinion was poorly done and cast. So I was thrilled when they announced the making of this film and especially with the finished product. Finally a good film version of the stage show. Can't wait until the video is released.
Enjoyable remake. A slightly different take on the story, set at Christmas time.
MyMovieTVRomance2 February 2024
I remember seeing this before, years ago - but I don't think I ever watched the whole thing. This time I did. It's very good, but it lacks the campy charm of the original. That being said, this cast is superb, but I do miss Carol Burnett. I think that's the part I missed the most. Carol Burnett's Miss Hannigan is the signature Miss Hannigan, and she at least ended up having a redemption ark, unlike in this version.
There are a few differences here, such as the fact that Daddy Warbucks in this one doesn't have the cantankerous nature of Daddy Warbucks in the original. He's much more smooth, right from the start. This is also a shorter version, there are a few things that might have been cut, such as the guy with the turbine in the original. He's not even in this one. But this version does have some things the other one doesn't have - such as a Christmas setting, and a couple of songs that are not in the original.
All in all, it's close in quality to the original, but still not quite up to it. But whether somebody prefers this one over the original we'll just have to do with how much they enjoy Carol Burnett, I think.
There are a few differences here, such as the fact that Daddy Warbucks in this one doesn't have the cantankerous nature of Daddy Warbucks in the original. He's much more smooth, right from the start. This is also a shorter version, there are a few things that might have been cut, such as the guy with the turbine in the original. He's not even in this one. But this version does have some things the other one doesn't have - such as a Christmas setting, and a couple of songs that are not in the original.
All in all, it's close in quality to the original, but still not quite up to it. But whether somebody prefers this one over the original we'll just have to do with how much they enjoy Carol Burnett, I think.
Slightly weaker than the 1982 version
myrddyn8 November 1999
The role of Miss Hannigan was made for Carol Burnett or Bette Midler; Kathy Bates is merely above average for the part. Alicia Morton is good in the title role, with excellent mugging for the camera, but isn't any more believable as an orphan than Aileen Quinn was. Victor Garber has a wonderful voice for musicals, but his acting is quite inconsistent for Dady Warbucks, a classic Silas Marner role that requires very quick development. Overall, the cinematography, choreography, and set design felt as if they were merely adapted from "The Wizard of Oz" and "Mary Poppins", with perhaps a bit of "Beauty and the Beast" (Disney version) thrown in. When someone with a lot of money remakes a well-known picture, I expect a better treatment than this. It's worth 90 minutes to watch, but I won't see it a second time.
My Favorite Version of this Musical (So far)
Gideon2414 March 2016
Warning: Spoilers
ABC/Disney mounted an elaborate and entertaining remake of the 1977 Broadway musical Annie for television in 1999 which, for my money, was vastly superior than the theatrical version released back in 1982. This version was directed by Rob Marshall, whose next directorial assignment was a little thing called Chicago. Marshall knows what a musical should look like and having him at the helm as director and choreographer made a big difference in making the piece work, as opposed to the 1982 version which was directed by John Huston, a competent director but clueless where musicals are concerned.
For those who don't know, this is the story of a little girl named Annie living in an orphanage during the depression, run by a cruel and sadistic witch named Miss Hannigan, who is chosen to spend a week in the mansion of a billionaire named Oliver Warbucks, a publicity stunt arranged by Warbucks' secretary Grace Farrell. We then watch as a relationship develops between the lonely philanthropist and the little girl and how Miss Hannigan sees Annie's good fortune as a ticket to Easy Street (which is, BTW, the name of one of the show's best songs).
Kathy Bates is deliciously evil as Miss Hannigan. I found Bates' interpretation of the character much richer than Carol Burnett's take on the role in 1982. Burnett played Miss Hannigan as a drunk, but Bates brought the greed and viciousness back to the role that Dorothy Loudon introduced to the character back on Broadway in '77. Bates also surprised as a competent vocalist. Her version of my favorite song in the score, "Little Girls" is just superb.
I have to admit that I found Victor Garber a little bland as Daddy Warbucks. I actually preferred Albert Finney in the '82 version , though Garber's solo, "Something was Missing" was lovely. Alicia Morton is competent as the title character and Audra McDonald brings a substance to the role of Grace that has been missing in previous versions of the show. Alan Cumming and Kristen Chenoweth are brilliant as Rooster and Lily, Miss Hannigan's brother and his girlfriend, who are Hannigan's cohorts in extorting money from Warbucks through Annie. Cumming, Chenoweth, and Bates bring down the house with "Easy Street".
Other songs in the Charles Strouse/Martin Charnin score include "Maybe", "It's a Hard Knocks Life","I think I'm gonna like it here", "You're Never Fully Dressed without a Smile", and, of course, "Tomorrow". During the production number, "NYC", there is actually a cameo appearance by Andrea McArdle, who originated the role of Annie in the original 1977 Broadway production.
For me, this is a much richer version of this musical, that takes the show back to the basics, remaining faithful to the original piece while benefiting from strong direction and choreography from Rob Marshall and some on-target casting.
For those who don't know, this is the story of a little girl named Annie living in an orphanage during the depression, run by a cruel and sadistic witch named Miss Hannigan, who is chosen to spend a week in the mansion of a billionaire named Oliver Warbucks, a publicity stunt arranged by Warbucks' secretary Grace Farrell. We then watch as a relationship develops between the lonely philanthropist and the little girl and how Miss Hannigan sees Annie's good fortune as a ticket to Easy Street (which is, BTW, the name of one of the show's best songs).
Kathy Bates is deliciously evil as Miss Hannigan. I found Bates' interpretation of the character much richer than Carol Burnett's take on the role in 1982. Burnett played Miss Hannigan as a drunk, but Bates brought the greed and viciousness back to the role that Dorothy Loudon introduced to the character back on Broadway in '77. Bates also surprised as a competent vocalist. Her version of my favorite song in the score, "Little Girls" is just superb.
I have to admit that I found Victor Garber a little bland as Daddy Warbucks. I actually preferred Albert Finney in the '82 version , though Garber's solo, "Something was Missing" was lovely. Alicia Morton is competent as the title character and Audra McDonald brings a substance to the role of Grace that has been missing in previous versions of the show. Alan Cumming and Kristen Chenoweth are brilliant as Rooster and Lily, Miss Hannigan's brother and his girlfriend, who are Hannigan's cohorts in extorting money from Warbucks through Annie. Cumming, Chenoweth, and Bates bring down the house with "Easy Street".
Other songs in the Charles Strouse/Martin Charnin score include "Maybe", "It's a Hard Knocks Life","I think I'm gonna like it here", "You're Never Fully Dressed without a Smile", and, of course, "Tomorrow". During the production number, "NYC", there is actually a cameo appearance by Andrea McArdle, who originated the role of Annie in the original 1977 Broadway production.
For me, this is a much richer version of this musical, that takes the show back to the basics, remaining faithful to the original piece while benefiting from strong direction and choreography from Rob Marshall and some on-target casting.
So far the best filmed version
emwolf30 November 2021
I first saw Annie at the Alvin in 1978. I fell in love. I was sorely disappointed by the John Huston film, it deviated to much from the characters in Annie. Of course, the 2014 version betrayed the source by changing the songs to fit the updated setting. This one, while not perfect, got it the best yet. I'm anticipating the Annie: Live coming up in 2021 to be good, we'll see if it measures up to this.
A remake of the original movie of 'Annie', more largely based on the broadway version
spaccygirl3 June 2002
This movie was extremely awful! Annie was my all time favourite musical when I was a kid. Aileen Quinn and Albert Finney really brought the musical to life. Most of the people who complained about the original version complained largely because it strayed from the original broadway plot. They didn't take into account the incredible chemistry between characters in the original. This movie felt dull and lacking of chemistry and vital energy in comparison. The one number that I enjoyed was 'Easy Street' in this version. The rest were dull. Annie in this movie seemed to have less spunk. Aileen Quinn really did a remarkable job when she played Annie. She really brought the character to life. This Annie didn't seem half as tough or convincing. Rent the original if you want to enjoy a musical brought to life for film without the political correctness and mass chease fest!
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