Review of Les Misérables (2012) by David L — 24 Jan 2015

One of the most famous musicals / stage shows of all time, yet this was the first time I'd ever watched any form of take on it. Knowing it contained song as much of the script, there's always that doubt in people's minds as to whether Jackman and Crowe would be the new Pierce Brosnans from Mamma Mia, but to be fair they did ok - it was less of a song and dance film and more of a proper story about the French Revolution so they didn't seem as much out of place.

I did really enjoy parts of this and obviously it is famed for more ditties over others, with those others being quite forgettable in places. I did like the song performed by Sacha Baron Cohen's character which was new to me, and in fact his role as a whole was quite comedic in combination with Helena Bonham Carter.

The overall story is staged well with the concept being set over several years and the all star cast all having their moments at different times in the years. I wouldn't say you get to be acquainted with the roles for too long for it to then get too emotional but I can see how many might have weeped at the sight of some scenes coupled with the music.

It can be somewhat off putting when you're Inbetween songs but the people still communicate via verse, making it hard to make out what they're saying. This not only sounds daft between two burly blokes, but becomes frustrating when you're trying to follow the dialogue.

It's structured in such a way so as to spread the more entertaining moments which is clever given the lengthy running time, and despite the incomprehensible language, I was still fascinated by it all.

I'm not sure if I'm fully bowled over to go and want to see a stage show, but there's potential to be convinced.