‘Fantastic’ film that fans are obsessed with is based on ‘masterpiece’ book | Films | Entertainment
A “masterpiece” film that fans can’t stop watching is hailed as “one of the greatest musical movies of modern time”. Les Misérables (2012) is set in nineteenth-century France and follows the story of Jean Valjean (played by Hugh Jackman), who breaches parole after serving a 19-year sentence, determined to escape the brutality of the prison system and make a better life for himself.
Years later, he becomes a respected factory owner and mayor, who agrees to care for the daughter of Fantine (Anne Hathaway), a worker at the factory, whom he learns has been living in abject poverty. But his past threatens to catch up with him against the backdrop of an uprising by Parisian republicans, with the city’s inhabitants facing growing political oppression and deprivation. It features an all-star ensemble cast which also includes Russell Crowe, Eddie Redmayne, Amanda Seyfried, Helena Bonham Carter, and Sacha Baron Cohen.
The film was directed by Tom Hooper and based on the iconic stage musical of the same name by Schönberg and Boublil, itself adapted from Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel.
The book itself is hailed by one fan on the r/books subreddit as a “masterpiece”. They wrote: “Can’t believe I am saying this but this book easily competes with ‘War and Peace’ and some might even say it is better. The plot, history, romance, philosophy and tragedy it had it all,” with the Reddit user adding: “You must read it.”
The 2012 film it inspired is also critically acclaimed, winning three Oscars, including Best Supporting Actress (Hathaway), as well as Best Sound Mixing, and Best Makeup and Hairstyling.
Fans have lavished the movie with praise on Rotten Tomatoes, with one writing: “Addicted to this movie. Hathaway’s performance alone makes it worth seeing.”
Others said they came back to it on a number of occasions, with another writing:”Loved it for the third time! The play was also very good!”
A third added: “Watched for the fifth time last night. Truly one of the greatest musical movies of modern time!”
A fan writing on IMDb said as “a huge fan of the musical” they had “religiously followed this film through its production from behind-the-scenes to trailers to sneak-peaks”, adding: “And let me tell you, Les Mis did not disappoint!”
“From the very beginning and the first swells of the orchestra’s music, I was hooked. And through the whole 2.5 hour movie, I was riveted,” they added.
They said overall it’s “one of the best movies I’ve seen”. “I cried at least 10 times through the whole film, and the finale completely RUINED me.
“I was sobbing a full 15 minutes after the movie ended, walking through the theatre and out to the car.”
Another called it a “must-see”, adding: “The actors gave incredible performances, especially, Anne Hathaway and her singing in I Dreamed a Dream. Hathaway’s performance made this film work.
“Tom Hopper directed this film just like the Broadway version. I can’t praise this film enough!”
The film has a 12 certificate and contains moderate violence and sex, and infrequent moderate language, so viewer discretion is advised.
Les Misérables is available to rent or buy on various platforms, including YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime, and Sky Store.
