After a long development process, it looks like a new adaptation of Annie is finally moving forward. The project, produced by entertainment icons Will Smith and Jay-Z, was aiming for a production start this spring, but Sony Pictures has now slightly delayed the shoot date to fall, but at least they have a director. The producers have brought on Sony favorite Will Gluck (Easy A, Friends with Benefits) to helm the modern-day update, which will draw on both the hit Broadway musical and the original comic strips, but the major twist is all-new songs from Jay-Z will be added to the classics that already exist.
Gluck, whose commercial sensibilities seem to be a strong fit for this material, will also take a stab at the script from screenwriter Emma Thompson, who previously took over from We Bought a Zoo and The Devil Wears Prada’s Aline Brosh McKenna. The filmmakers will have to find a new star though, as Will Smith‘s daughter Willow Smith was lining up to lead the film as the title character, but has since grown out of the role. With many months to go before production though, expect casting to heat up this summer.
Annie is expected to arrive in 2014.
Are you looking forward to Jay-Z and Will Smith’s take on Annie? Is Gluck a good fit?