Annie

Sometimes childhood memories are best left undisturbed: I seem to recall getting a kick, way back when, out of this 1982 big-screen adaptation of the Broadway hit musical, but sheesh, is this one overly long, uninspired, and frequently awful film or what? John Huston directs the absurdly spunky Aileen Quinn in a caricature performance as the titular red-headed orphan heroine who tries to win the heart of billionaire “Daddy” Warbucks (Albert Finney) and evade her orphanage-ruling nemesis Miss Hannigan (Carol Burnett). Although clearly meant to be a high-spirited romp, Annie never really takes off or engages our enthusiasm, making it--30 years later--still fluff for the youngsters who are the intended audience for this less-than-optimum “special anniversary edition” DVD. While boasting a lovely re-mastered DTS and Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack (adding oomph to beloved songs such as “Tomorrow”), the image is not only marred by imperfections, but--worse--presented in a full screen rather than widescreen format. Kid-centric DVD extras include a music video of ‘tween band Play performing "It's the Hard Knock Life," as well as "Act-Along with Annie" and "Sing-Along with Annie" features. Optional. (M. Johanson)[Blu-ray Review—Sept. 25, 2012—Sony, 127 min., PG, $14.99—Making its first appearance on Blu-ray, 1982's Annie (30th Anniversary Sing-Along Edition) features a great transfer with a DTS-HD 5.1 soundtrack. Blu-ray extras include a sing-along viewing option, “My Hollywood Adventure with Aileen Quinn” retrospective with the star (12 min.), the music video for “It's a Hard Knock Life” by Play, trailers, and a bonus UltraViolet copy of the film. Bottom line: this beloved musical makes a welcome debut on Blu-ray at a bargain price.]