Amazon.com: Frenchman Jean Valjean (Liam Neeson), imprisoned for stealing bread, is paroled after nearly two decades of hard labor. A gift of silver candlesticks from a kindly priest helps him begin anew. Forging a decent and profitable existence, he finds success as a businessman and as the mayor of a small town. He even takes in a pregnant young woman (Uma Thurman) and raises her daughter as his own. When a former prison guard (Geoffrey Rush) recognizes Valjean, his past catches up to him. Director Bille August culls mesmerizing performances from his cast, but loses us with an ending that panders to teen audiences. The focus shifts dramatically, and uncomfortably, from the haunted Neeson and his hawk-like pursuer, to his daughter (Claire Danes) and her romance with a handsome revolutionary. After this narrative shift, the script leaves behind the Victor Hugo classic's themes of revenge and redemption to focus improbably on teen angst--hardly what Hugo had on his mind. --Rochelle O'Gorman
A Moving Masterpiece I never cease to be touched by this film; it's one of the few movies I can call "powerful" without being overdramatic.
The story centers on Jean Valjean, a convict -- how his life was transformed by the action of a selfless clergyman, and how his own life transforms those around him. It is very much a story about hope, the rarity and value of selflessness and true love and how it transforms the soul more readily than punishment, and the salvation of the human condition.
The first act always makes me cry. It's one of the most powerful moments in a movie for me -- more of a spectacle than all the battle scenes ever filmed. When those police drag Jean back to the bishop and toss him down at his feet, and that precious man hands Jean the silver candlesticks, I always expect for that shocked feeling to be weaker. It never is.
Although the beginning of the movie is a jaw-dropper, the ending of the movie is just as striking and, in my opinion, the most beautiful portion... the image of the inspector are indelibly etched in my mind.
This movie is also quite lovely. The first parts of the movies are filmed in the gorgeous countryside, filled with lush vegetation and lovely old trees. When the movie changes to Paris, it seems less realistic and more like a series of sets... combined with the love story, it helps to set the movie a trifle off-balance. These are niggling concerns in the end. The theme, characterization, and plot ultimately emerges unscathed.
As powerful and wonderful as this film is, it should be watched after reading the book. It colors one's perception and fleshes out certain character behaviors. Certain things had to be cut to fit the running time, which I could understand (don't worry, this doesn't mean "plot holes"). I certainly don't think the theme suffers too much. Jean always acts selflessly -- makes mistakes through his fear, yes, but in the end always acts on what he knows is right.
Read the book. Then watch this movie. It will make you think about your actions in an entirely different way.
Les Miserables-Liam Neeson Outstanding story of mercy and forgiveness. Highly recommended for theatrical quality and strength of message and meaning. You will not go wrong with this film.
No Worries Movie in perfect condition, arrived in a timely manner, would purchase from this seller again. No worries.
memorable Although Victor Hugo might squabble about some creative license taken with the film, it still is worth seeing. Neeson carries the show almost single-handedly as Jean Valjean--an incredible character he plays with his usual, greatly admirable talent.
Movie - Drama If you're a fan of the music only then this is not the film for you. However the acting and the way the characters are portrayed are excellent. I loved this movie the first time I saw it and it hasn't lost its appeal. Liam Neeson and Geoffrey Rush are fantastic. Uma Thurman and Claire Danes are amazing. If you know the story already the movie flows beautifully and if it's your first time you'll love the way the story unfolds. I hope you feel the same way too if you decide to buy this movie. Thanks for reading my review.
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