Film Review: Les Miserables
Ok, all I knew about Les Mis prior to seeing the film was a few of the character names (Javert, Jean Valjean, Fantine, Eponine and Marius to be precise) and the songs I Dreamed a Dream and On My Own. I also knew when and where it was set, that Fantine died and that it was depressing. The title itself kind of gives that away.
Actually, that's not the entire truth. I have listened to the original cast recording once, after mum bought it for me a couple of Christmases ago. The lack of context meant most the songs completely past me by. Now, they at least make sense. Hooray!
The biggest feeling I got coming out of it was, like when I saw the cinema broadcast of the Phantom of the Opera at the RAH, 'I want to go and see the show now'. I wanted to see it anyway but now, I want to see it even more. Beyond rewatches of Wicked, the only things I really want to see at the West End right now are Les Mis, Matilda, Lift and a Tailor Made Man (and maybe A Chorus Line too hmm). And two of them might even by classified as fringe shows. Meh.
Anne Hathaway was exceptional, but that has been broadcast everywhere so she only really met my expectations than exceed them. Stupid overhyping. Samantha Barks was the one who interested me most, she made a beautiful Eponine and you could tell how well she understands the character, having played her in the West End too.
I don't think I actually have all that much to say to be honest. The songs - and the plot as a consequence - now make sense to me. I want to see the live show and read the book. But yeah, that's it. Good film, will be able to compare and contrast better once I have indulged in the other mediums.
Actually, that's not the entire truth. I have listened to the original cast recording once, after mum bought it for me a couple of Christmases ago. The lack of context meant most the songs completely past me by. Now, they at least make sense. Hooray!
The biggest feeling I got coming out of it was, like when I saw the cinema broadcast of the Phantom of the Opera at the RAH, 'I want to go and see the show now'. I wanted to see it anyway but now, I want to see it even more. Beyond rewatches of Wicked, the only things I really want to see at the West End right now are Les Mis, Matilda, Lift and a Tailor Made Man (and maybe A Chorus Line too hmm). And two of them might even by classified as fringe shows. Meh.
Anne Hathaway was exceptional, but that has been broadcast everywhere so she only really met my expectations than exceed them. Stupid overhyping. Samantha Barks was the one who interested me most, she made a beautiful Eponine and you could tell how well she understands the character, having played her in the West End too.
I don't think I actually have all that much to say to be honest. The songs - and the plot as a consequence - now make sense to me. I want to see the live show and read the book. But yeah, that's it. Good film, will be able to compare and contrast better once I have indulged in the other mediums.