Les Miserables

When I heard the news about Les Miserables being adapted for the screen, I was on the fence about it until I heard that Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe had been cast as Valjean and Javert respectively--and then I couldn't wait. I was certain it would be epic. I saw the movie last night. There were things about it that I loved and things about it that I really hated. Despite what's going to look like a lot of criticism, I really enjoyed the movie and may see it again, but I do have issues with it. I'm going to go on at some length here, so I'm cutting this post for flist mercy. ( And spoilers ahead, for them as cares.... )

So while I really did like the movie for many reasons (perhaps all of which I haven't articulated here and may not be able to for some time), I also had my obvious criticisms. Chalk it up to my loving the material enough to want it to be if not perfect then at least as strong as it can possibly be.

Do I recommend seeing it? For all my complaints--yes, absolutely.

This review is dedicated to Phil, with whom I would have adored tearing this movie apart with. It just wrong that he's not here for this.