Les Misérables

“To love another person is to see the face of God.”

When prisoner Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) is released on parole, his status as an ex-convict makes him an outcast, and he quickly comes to hate the world. But when a bishop surprises him with great kindness, he decides to break his parole and turn his life to God. Years later, his dedication to God leads him to adopt an orphaned girl after promising her dying mother to look after her.

But trying to live a virtuous life is a constant challenge. The overzealous police inspector Javert (Russell Crowe) wants him back in prison for breaking parole, while his adopted daughter falls in love with a young man involved in the dangerous Paris Uprising of 1832. To protect his daughter and the young man while avoiding the clutches of Javert, Valjean must continue to trust in God’s guidance.

Based on the popular musical from the 80’s (itself one of many adaptations of Victor Hugo’s classic novel) and told almost entirely through song, Les Mis deftly explores the powers of faith, love, and forgiveness. Viewers may also note Valjean’s and Javert’s contrasting perspectives of the role of faith in God and the law. Rated PG-13 for violence and thematic elements, this one is more appropriate for older viewers.

Runtime: 2 hours, 38 minutes
Rated PG-13
USCCB rating: A-III
IMDb Parents Guide