Les Miserables
Genre: Musical, Drama
Main Players: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Eddie Redmayne, Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter
General Gist: "Ex-prisoner Jean Valjean is hunted for decades by the ruthless policeman Javert after he breaks parole. When Valjean agrees to care for factory worker Fantine's young daughter, Cosette, their lives change forever" (taken from movies.yahoo.com)
Deb's Take:
I have never seen this in any way, shape or form. I was super excited to see it. First off, the movie is long...really, I felt it was too long. I suppose it mimics the on stage performance, but I got tired of it. Second, I got tired of the singing/chanting. I know it's a musical, but I really like more of a part sing, part speak show. Third, I was amazed at the performance and singing of the actors. I think they did a great job, and all the characters were wonderfully cast. Unfortunately, I think this movie should have been left on the stage. I think some of it's character and charm was lost as a movie. Don't get me wrong, the movie was exceptional in scenes, sets, costumes, etc...but sometimes I think leaving the arts in their true form is just as well.
Deb's Rate: Rent it (in case you need to pause for a short break)
Tiff's Take:
Yes, this movie was long. But I'm not sure there was really a way to get around that. A "big" movie like this with a lot of hype is bound to be long, right? This was my first time as well to see any form of Les Mis. Mainly because I'm not a huge musical person so I've never made a point to see it on stage. After seeing this I don't really think I will make a point to go that extra step. Not because I thought it was horrible though, but because seeing a dramatic, musical once is probably enough for me.
And full on musical it was. No talking at all. Just singing. The entire time. A little much for me. But I did enjoy the story even if it was a little depressing. The acting was great and the singing was for the most part great. I would be curious to hear what someone thought who had seen the musical on stage. Did it do it a huge injustice?? Or was it a great interpretation? I'm sure personally I'll never know but I'm glad I did see it even if it wasn't exactly my cup of tea.
Tiff's Rate: Matinee
Preview: One more to come for 2012!
I am so surprised that you didn't like it! I have seen it on stage twice and loved it there and I really liked the movie too. I could listen to the music all day long! :)
ReplyDeleteTerra, it's so good to hear that someone who liked it on stage so well liked the movie too. I was curious about that. I think for me at least it wasn't my favorite only because I'm just really not a big musical lover. I tend to find them a little boring. I don't think I appreciate music as much as you do. :)
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