The Real Jean Valjean

Jean Valjean: He is, in my opinion, one of the most simple and at the same time one of the most complex characters ever written. As readers follow his journey through Victor Hugo’s classic novel Les Miserables, they come to see that Valjean is a passionate person and his story is one filled with many emotions. Love, hate, shame, guilt, the need to prove oneself… All of these timeless issues are embodied in this …

…Glenn Jordan’s version of Les Miserables gives the film a rather amateur atmosphere. It has its good points, but they are overshadowed by the shoddy acting and uninspired directing. Meanwhile, Bille August’s production is riddled with towering performances, unique and authentic visuals, and a powerful stress on personal integrity and moral dilemmas. It is a passionate representation of Victor Hugo’s novel and a stunning portrait of the most extreme of human emotions.