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Blog by Don Kennedy

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Les Miserable

Les Miserable is based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel on the theme of oppressive social injustice that pervaded early 19th century France during one of that country’s turbulent post revolutionary returns to the monarchy. In a fairly literal presentation of the original story ex convict Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) has his heart, hardened by a travesty of justice, softened by a kindly priest. He then finds purpose in life with a forlorn waif named Cosette (Isabelle Allen / Amanda Seyfried) thanks to a deathbed promise he makes to her wretched mother Fontaine (Anne Hathaway). The story unfolds over two decades in which despite his altruism Valjean is relentlessly pursued by Javert (Russell Crowe) an officious policeman trying to send Jean back to prison for parole violation. And just when Javert poses his greatest threat Cosette falls for Marius (Eddie Redmayne) a student radical involved in a serious revolutionary plot. At almost three hours with no dialogue, the vocal talent needs to be absolutely captivating so casting star power with sometimes limited singing ability just to ensure big box office seems here like a misstep -especially considering the bold gamble of recording performances live with no overdubs. Hugh Jackman has substantial musical theatre creds to fall back on but Russell Crowe, who sounds fine rocking in front of his band 30 Odd Foot of Grunts, doesn’t bring enough to this very important role. Same with Amanda Seyfried who trills out a vibrato that is more suited to a Disney cartoon. Anne Hathaway on the other hand leaves it all on the screen with an awesome show stopper and ingénue Samantha Barks as Eponine is another stand out. Not making musical history but none the less providing brilliant comic relief just when it’s needed most (not to mention getting to belt out the productions most memorable reprise) are Sacha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter as M. and Mme. Thenardier. The story has vanquished the test of time but can this film adaptation stand the transition from wildly popular operatic stage musical? Well uh, sort of.

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