Mildred, Pierced

As film buffs collectively moan
Kate Winslet is cast against Joan
It isn't poor Kate,
it's remakes I hate
Oh why not leave classics alone?



Kate Winslet stars in an HBO mini-series remake of Mildred Pierce, an iconic role and a screen comeback for Joan Crawford in 1945. HBO claims they're revisiting James M. Cain's 1941 novel, not remaking the Michael Curtiz film. They've certainly lined up a lot of talent, with Todd Haynes (Far From Heaven) directing Winslet, Evan Rachel Wood, Guy Pearce and Melissa Leo. Top: Winslet and Wood as mother and daughter. Above and below: Crawford with screen daughter Ann Blyth.