The first movie version was a decent translation of the original stage musical. This new variation is so reworked by Hollywood hacks that it bears little resemblance to the original (it’s even been moved to present day NYC). The handful of songs that remain are supplemented with some new updated ones and they’re all overproduced and flat. Quvenzhané Wallis in the title role is cute. The other leads (Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz) are woefully unfunny and the staging is uninventive. Overall, the film has energy but no heart or charm. For a cast that features black actors in the leads, this is sadly soulless.
(2.5 / 5)