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List Price: $14.94 | | Label: Sony Pictures
Salesrank: 2643
Released: November 3, 1998 |
| Our Price: $5.78 |
| Used Price: $5.65 |
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MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Media: DVD |
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Editorial Review:
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
Les Miserables Reviews:
A Moving Masterpiece 
2008-10-08 - I never cease to be touched by this film. The first act always makes me cry, always. The rarity and value of selflessness cannot be understated. It's one of the few films I can call "powerful."
It is, however, a film to be watched after reading the book. By itself, the movie is a trifle off-balance; reviewers are correct when they say that the "teen angst" portion is a bit off-putting. It's also a bit shocking when Jean hits Cosette (twice) -- something I could understand once, perhaps, but not twice.
These are niggling concerns. The greater portion of this movie works perfectly. In fact, the first time I watched the film, the romance did not bother me. I had just come from reading the book, which colored my perception and fleshed 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.
Although the beginning of the movie is a jaw-dropper, the ending of the movie is the most striking and incredible part... the image of the inspector is indelibly etched in my mind. No doubt you will enjoy it just as much.
Read the book. Then watch this movie. It will make you think about your actions in an entirely different way.
Les Miserables-Liam Neeson
2008-09-13 - 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
2008-08-25 - Movie in perfect condition, arrived in a timely manner, would purchase from this seller again. No worries.
memorable 
2008-08-22 - 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
2008-08-12 - 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.
