They do it almost every time.

In rereading Majorie Morningstar, one of my favorite novels and the most widely read book of 1955, I am once again struck with how idiotic Hollywood can be. Here was a bestselling novel of the 1950s, read by millions and, like Gone With the Wind, wildly anticipated as a film. Though she was not Jewish, Natalie Wood was an excellent choice for Marjorie. But the other major role of Noel Airman was absurd. The book clearly describes him as a tall, thin, reddish-blond haired Adonis with tons of sex appeal. So who does Hollywood cast?  Talented dancer and singer, dark-haired Gene Kelley, not noted for his sex appeal. If they wanted a dancer, why not Gower Champion, super handsome, blond and sexy. Or Gene Nelson, who lookswise would have been a better choice of Genes. Of course Hollywood, always knowing better, revised the wildly popular story and created a moderately entertaining and shallow film. So instead of having a masterly profitable film equal to the still popular book, they have a tepid, dated film nobody watches anymore. Why? Because they thought they knew better. And they're still doing it with new projects.

I predict the new Annie will suffer the same kind of fate. Once again Hollywood has taken a tried and true winner and over-produced it, added an attractive Miss Hannigan (huge mistake) and revising and updating the story. I could be wrong, but there is not one scene in the trailer that suggests to me that this is a terrific movie.