'Beasts of the Southern Wild' star Quvenzhane Wallis cast as 'Annie'

The young Oscar-nominated star of "Beasts of the Southern Wild" has been cast in the lead role of a new version of "Annie."

The 9-year-old Quvenzhane is one of the youngest Oscar-nominated actors ever. She's also shot a small role in Steve McQueen's upcoming film, "Twelve Years a Slave."

"Annie" is planned for release during the 2014 holiday season. Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith and Jay-Z are among the producers. The Smiths' daughter, Willow, had originally been slated to play Annie.