1998, 128 minutes, Rated M
First published in 1862, Victor Hugo's monumental novel tells of the convict Jean Valjean and his relentless pursuit by the police inspector Javert. A source of inspiration for well over a century, LES MISERABLES has provided the basis for plays, both silent and sounds films, the TV series "The Fugitive" and the highly sucessful stage musical.
This, the thirteenth dramatic film version of the classic tale, stars Liam Neeson as Jean Valjean with Australia's Oscar winning Geoffrey Rush (Best Actor 1996 - 'Shine') as Javert. Paroled after six years of incarceration for stealing a loaf of bread to help feed his sister and her child, the now hardened criminal's life is transformed by a kindly bishop whose love and charity sets Jean Valjean on the path of redemption. Ten years on, with a new identity Jean is respected major of a thriving town. Still wanted by the law for breaking parole, he however believes his past is well behind him. That is until the former prison guard Javert is assigned as the town's chief of police. Now Jean Valjean, accompained by his foster daughter Cosette (Claire Danes) is on the run again, relentlessly pursued by a man committed to uphold the law, no matter the circumstances.
Also featuring Uma Thurman as the tragic Fantine, and directed by Billie August, the acclaimed Danish director of "Pelle the Conqueror" and "The Best Intentions", LES MISERABLES remains a captivating adventure of love, honour, sacrifice, forgiveness and obsession set against the volatility and passion of 19th Century France.
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