“Surely you’ve heard of the classic novel by Victor Hugo entitled Les Miserables. In fact for many teens it is part of their English class requirement. Being a great work of literature, it was only a matter of time before Hollywood discovers it and brings it to brilliant life. The latest version of this work of literature was just released in movie theaters across the nation.
“Les Miserables” is a powerful story of love, compassion, and the human spirit. Directed by Billie August, the film stars Liam Neeson, Uma Thurman, Claire Danes, and Geoffrey Rush. Although I had heard many good things about the book I remained skeptical until finally having a chance to see the film. What I saw was definitely a well crafted story that involved characters that both saddened and angered.
The story begins simple enough. First we meet Jean Valjean (Liam Neeson), a convict who is released from prison. At first, he appears to be nothing more than a simple begger. When he approaches the home of a minister and his wife, he is taken in, fed, and given a bed to sleep. How does he decide to repay them? By stealing their silverware and nearly killing the minister in the night. The next day officers arrive at the minister’s home with Valjean arrested. When told by the officers that Valjean claimed he was given the silverware, the minister acknowledges that to be the truth. The officers leave and thus Valjean is given a second chance at life by the minister and his wife.
Ten years later we find that Valjean is under an alias name and is now the major of a small village near Paris. He has made a new life for himself and all is well until he meets his new inspector of police, Javert (Geoffrey Rush), who happens to be the same officer that watched over him in prison so many years ago. At first only Valjean remembers but soon Javert suspects that the major is not who he claims to be.
We are also introduced to Fantine (Uma Thurman), a young worker in the village factory run by the major. We learn of how she works to send money to a family who care for her daughter, a child conceived out of wedlock. When this is discovered she looses her job and is forced to find other ways of obtaining money for her child.
Fantine’s daughter eventually grows up to be the young and beautiful Cosette (Claire Danes). Cosette is unaware of her mother’s past and was raised by Valjean as he had promised Fantine.
The story all together manages to grasp and fascinate. Beautifully told and expressed, the film successfully brings this classic novel to life. Uma Thurman’s performance greatly captures the essence of her character. You truly end up feeling sad for this person who only wished to protect her child’s security. Liam Neeson is also one to mention. His portrayal of a man whose only desire was to live a life in peace is worthy of a standing ovation.
If you have ever wanted to see “Les Miserables” in any form besides a book, this is the film you should not miss. Even for those who have never read the book, the time is now to get a chance to see what it’s all about. If Victor Hugo were alive he’d be proud of this accomplishment.”
