Les Misérables

A lean adaptation of a famous and historically valuable tale, which, as a faithful portrayal of a complex time and even more complex people, will surely be popular and attractive even when mankind, through its own stupidity, turns evolution upside down and regains the standard of living that modern society nowadays remembers with a smile in similar engagingly narrative Hollywood flicks. It's heartfelt, beautifully scored, emotionally adequate and, most importantly, so well acted that it's simply impossible to imagine the book's characters with any other face. But the clear dominant is the psychological and politically clever duel between the benevolent Valjean and the diabolical Javert, which, thanks to the performances of Neeson and Rush and the thorough symbolism of their relationship on a personal, political and conventional level, is far more memorable than the fight sequences from the suppression of the revolution; and that is a plus, a big plus! 80% (07/02/2014)

I don't understand why others are so excited about this. This adaptation of Hugo's novel is not even close to the one with Jean Gabin and Hossein's version with Lino Ventura. Geoffrey Rush delivers his standard and the others don't shine either. The whole thing looks more like an expensive TV production, without a shred of originality. A standard job, nothing more. (08/05/2003)

A captivating adaptation of a famous book, which, in certain aspects, even surpasses it in quality. The story is full of tension, and the viewer practically has no chance of getting bored throughout. Bill August directs excellently, and the few small mistakes are promptly covered up by the excellent production design and an interesting narrative style. Liam Neeson fits in perfectly and so does the sly and demonic Geoffrey Rush. Most likely the best and most impressive film adaptation, and overall surprisingly excellent performances from everyone involved. (13/01/2006)

A very powerful, sombre adaption that draws its greatest strength from the excellent performances of its elite cast. (05/04/2003)