For the little girls who landed roles in the stage and film versions of Annie, it was a dream come true.
Or so it seemed.
The documentary, “Life After Tomorrow”, is an eye-opening look at what happened to some the child actresses when Tomorrow came. Including interviews with many of the orphans from the Broadway casts, National Tours, and the 1982 motion picture, the film gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse into a life that few saw. Most notably are interviews with Sarah Jessica Parker (who, before being our beloved Carrie Bradshaw on Sex and the City, had been a Broadway Annie!), MSNBC’s Dara Torres, and songwriter Danielle Brisebois, who all honestly recount their experiences being a part of Annie.
The documentary is artfully directed by Julie Stevens, herself a former child actress who performed in both the Broadway show and Third National Tour of Annie. She and her partner Gil Cates, Jr. weave a cautionary, yet objective tale for parents considering putting their children in show business.
While “Life After Tomorrow” offers a delicious “Where Are They Now” nostalgia factor, it’s ultimately a bittersweet film. It intimately explores how Annie shaped (and in some cases, defined) the young women’s lives. You can tell that many of the actresses wanted to continue working, and recapture a glory that sadly peaked at puberty. It is by far a must-see film for anyone and everyone who has ever loved Annie.