Les Miserables

Les Miserables

Year: 2012

Runtime: 158 min

Language: English

Director: Tom Hooper

DramaThrillerRomanceMusical

In 19th-century France, Jean Valjean, a former convict seeking redemption, transforms his life and becomes a compassionate mayor. However, his past catches up to him when the relentless Inspector Javert vows to bring him to justice, driven by a rigid sense of order and vengeance. Their decades-long pursuit unfolds against the backdrop of social unrest and revolution, testing their principles and ultimately determining their fates.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Les Miserables (2012)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Les Miserables (2012). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1815-1832

Set in early 19th century France, this time period was marked by political upheaval, social reform, and the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars. The rise of the working class and the revival of revolutionary sentiments highlight the desperate societal struggles experienced by characters in the film.

Location

Montreuil-Sur-Mer, Paris

Montreuil-Sur-Mer serves as a backdrop for Jean Valjean's remarkable transformation from convict to mayor, symbolizing redemption and societal awareness. Paris, filled with revolutionary fervor, is the central stage for the conflict and despair faced by its citizens, defined by its historic architecture and vibrant culture.

🏙️ City 🏰 Historical

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:15

Main Characters – Les Miserables (2012)

Meet the key characters of Les Miserables (2012), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman)

A deeply flawed yet heroic protagonist, Valjean embodies the struggle for redemption and the quest for a new identity. His journey from convict to respected mayor illustrates his transformation and moral resolve, as he consistently chooses selflessness over personal gain.

👨‍⚖️ Hero 🤝 Redemption

Javert (Russell Crowe)

Javert is a relentless police inspector who is staunchly dedicated to the law. His unwavering pursuit of Valjean signifies a rigid sense of justice, yet his internal conflict raises questions about the nature of morality and the human capacity for change.

🕵️‍♂️ Antagonist ⚖️ Justice

Fantine (Anne Hathaway)

A tragic figure, Fantine is a mother whose desperation drives her to the depths of society. Her heartbreaking journey emphasizes themes of sacrifice and the harsh realities faced by women in that era, ultimately serving as a catalyst for Valjean's transformation.

👩‍👧‍👦 Mother 💔 Tragedy

Cosette (Amanda Seyfried)

Cosette's character represents hope and innocence amidst oppression. Growing from a neglected child into a young woman, her journey highlights the struggles of love and the nurturing bond she shares with Valjean, standing as a beacon of light in darker times.

✨ Hope 💕 Love

Marius Pontmercy (Eddie Redmayne)

Marius is a passionate young idealist caught in a web of love and revolution. His character reflects youthful determination and the longing for change, as he navigates his feelings for Cosette against the backdrop of societal upheaval.

🔥 Revolution 💘 Romance

Thenardier (Sacha Baron Cohen)

Representing the moral decay of society, Thenardier is a cunning innkeeper who exploits the suffering of others for personal gain. His unscrupulous nature serves as a contrast to Valjean, highlighting the themes of greed and corruption.

💰 Greed 🦹‍♂️ Antagonist

Eponine (not explicitly provided)

Eponine, the unrequited love of Marius, embodies the theme of sacrifice and the pain of unreciprocated feelings. Her loyalty and bravery highlight her depth as a character amidst the turmoil of revolution, making her sacrifice all the more poignant.

💔 Heartbreak 🎭 Sacrifice

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:15

Major Themes – Les Miserables (2012)

Explore the central themes of Les Miserables (2012), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

Justice permeates the narrative, showcasing the stark contrasts between the harsh realities of the legal system and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals. Through Valjean and Javert's interactions, the film explores the complexities of justice versus mercy, particularly in the oppressive societal structure of 19th century France.

💔 Sacrifice

Sacrifice emerges as a poignant theme, especially through Valjean's actions for Cosette and Marius. Characters consistently place the needs of others above their own desires, highlighting the burdensome yet noble choices that define true love and moral responsibility in the face of adversity.

⭐ Redemption

The quest for redemption drives Valjean's character, representing the possibility of change despite a tainted past. His transformative journey invites audiences to reflect on the power of forgiveness and the enduring impact of compassion in an unforgiving world.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:15

Unlock the Full Story of Les Miserables

Don't stop at just watching — explore Les Miserables in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Les Miserables is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Les Miserables Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Les Miserables, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Les Miserables Summary

Les Miserables Timeline

Track the full timeline of Les Miserables with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Les Miserables Timeline

More About Les Miserables

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Les Miserables: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Les Miserables

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