Le Film

…And of course, I see myself writing about Les Misérables. A page in my memory.

I  don’t how to begin describing, but “Bravo!” (standing ovation). It felt as if I was watching a real-life musical performance.

With that in mind – no “spoken” words – everything was melodic, which was hard to follow, but as an end to cutting scenes… and a pause for me to catch a breath.

 

I, admit, I cried throughout the whole entire movie. It was beautifully directed from Jean-ValJean (inner-human struggle) to the French Revolution (human strength & power). In the the mist of war, there is the usual passing of love (Cosette/ Marius/ Éponine) and pain (Fontine). All in all, we must have hope and faith in our blood to thrive. The quintessential of “Life and Art” as one.

Hathaway was breath-taking in her solo. That was the starting point of my tears…after that …a deep, deep river. Another scene, I admired, was Éponine, she is the “runner-up,” seconds too late and blinded by love. Her solo, which the lyrics/ words, was relative and emotional. Of course, not to forget, Enjolras (partner in crime of Marius) and the rebels for their determination and adversity.

So, with the richness of the blue-white-red color flags waving in triumph; the money shot was with the entire ensemble at the end. Vive la France!

 

Fontine was a small development character (supporting), but it triggered the cause and effect. I would love to see Hathaway on stage performing her solo. “The Fragility” was summed up in her voice and expression. This was Les Misérables’ anthem.

Jackman and his voice was expecting of a performer, because the story revolves around the hero and his right of passage. His role is already powerful enough than any other characters.

As for Redmayne; unexpected. His charm was in his performance as a singer. He is the typical “young visage,” but it was how he controlled his voice, beautiful range. Tveit, on the other hand, had the “manly face,” but his voice was incomparable to Redmayne. So, It was understanding for the given roles. As for Seyfried, unexpected again. She is the typical blond; beautiful (of course!), when listening though; her charismatic “Nightengale” voice is a portrayal of youth. Crowe; I did not know he could sing. I tried not to think too much on Crowe’s acto-biblio. He is an actor, while the remaining ensemble had broadway/ musical past. Cohen and Carter are talented and witty performers with “Comedic” playfulness to the “Tragedy.” New face is Barks; beautiful performer with low pitch.

…Not to forget, Les Misérables’ golden child, young Cosette. Allen is a born performer. Blue eyes and crystal voice. Wonderfully casted.

The whole ensemble makes “Les Misérables.”

 

4.5* …Breath-taking Saturday. A keeper for life.

 

It was a novel, not a musical. So I am glad to have seen the motion picture – at a good cost – for my first impression. If by any chance the musical is in town; I will definitely attend without hesitation.

Bravo! Monsieur Victor Hugo x Mr. Tom Hooper