It took a great while for me to appreciate the classical masterpiece that is Les Miserables. My first brush with the story based on Victor Hugo's 1862 novel of the same name came during my school days, when art and music classes exposed me to the musical drama piece, filled with memorable songs of hope, tragedy, and dreams of a better life sung by archetypal characters that would be inspire several literary works. Since then, I never looked up on "Les Mis" again... Until word came that the long awaited film adaptation would be helmed by "The King's Speech" director Tom Hooper, and would have an ensemble comprised of today's best Hollywood performers such as Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, Russell Crowe, and Amanda Seyfried.
Truth be told - unless it was an actual boradway play, movie musicals were hardly something I'd go for in the big screen. Les Miserables more than proved to be an exception to that rule, and after finally seeing it this week via local premiere, I'm literally at a loss for words for what is most deserving to be called a "beautiful masterpiece". Originally premiering in London last month and opening just this week in selected theaters internationally, the film version of "Les Miserables" is a great way to open your 2013 movie experience, and a timeless drama that any art, movie, or music fan should experience. Thanks goes to Solar UIP for the premiere screening this week, and without further ado, here is my review on this timeless dramatic masterpiece!
From the talent to the production values, everything about Les Mis screams EPIC and PERFECTION. Set in the 19th Century just after the French Revolution and spanning a time period of almost two decades that culminates during the June Rebellion of France, Hugh Jackman plays the main role of Jean Valjean, a former convict who escapes his life of parole and sets to become a better man who will live his life for God and his fellow man. His eternal rival is Javert, a decorated police officer played by Russell Crowe who relentlessly pursues Valjean and is convinced that the man is beyond redemption. Anne Hathaway plays the tragic role of Fantine, a mother who turns to prostitution in order to support her young illegitimate daughter, Cosette. Upon reaching maidenhood, the beautiful Cosette is played by Amanda Seyfried, who is adopted by Valjean and wins the heart and affection of revolutionist Marius Pontmercy (played by Eddie Redmayne).
Also starring the likes of Helena Boham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen as the swindling Thenadiers and introducing the lovely and talented Samantha Barks as Eponine, Les Miserables is the kind of movie that will captivate and keep audiences glued to the screen as driven musical performances and acts tell a stunning tale of redemption, revenge, and love that will certainly leave many inspired and teary-eyed once all is said and done. Quality and passion are clearly seen in the faces of Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway in particular, as their ability to sing high notes and convey their what their characters feel more than make this movie worth the price of admission. It's no wonder that these two in particular were nominated and won awards in this year's Golden Globe Awards.
To put it in simple terms - the film adaptation of Les Miserables is definitely a MUST SEE. Tom Hooper's direction clearly paid off on this one, and it's highly recommended that you watch this epic piece in the best cinema you can find with thunderous speakers and awesome sound quality. It's nomination into the 2013 Academy Awards stands for something more than brilliance, and anybody who enjoys talented performances by some of the best Hollywood has to offer will get their money's worth here. If you enjoy a drama piece that has a message to convey, be it the cries of freedom, hope, revolution or beautiful music to share, this is the movie for you. Don't waste any time and go see this right now.
Rating - 5/5
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