Luxor4u

I went to see Les Miserables last night. Superb film. Powerful. Certain imagery was, for me, thought provoking beyond the expected for the film.

Interesting combinaton between real location sets and stage sets and some great camera work.

The revolution scenes took my mind to other, other times - sadly nothing changes.

Well cast with actors I would never have associated with singing roles and who handled them excellently. Some hace already commented that the quality of singing wasn't professional enough but I disagree as for me the voices fitted the parts.

Quick hint of recognition of places familiar to me such as Portsmouth and Winchester and Oxford but not much as most of the filming was character close ups.

There are not many films where people stand up at the end and applaude and cheer - this was one of them.

If you want to see it don't wait for the DVD - try to see it on the big scree first and let the sights and sounds engulf you.

About a year ago I was sent a flyer which was advertising for local people to audition as extra's - singing and non singing. I gave it serious thought but alas didn't do it. When I saw the last scene I couldn't help but think 'Wow! I could have been a part of that!' I may not have passed the audition - but now I will never know!

Edit - the historians among you may note a few little extra's -certainly there is one nice touch and possibly at least one important inaccuracy. (But hey, what's it matter... it's a movie of a book - not a historical documentry! )

It opened here on Boxing Day, a traditional day for Aussies to go to the cinema, if they are not being couch potatoes in front of the Test Cricket, both a good way to recover from Christmas. I was going to take my Mum, but decided the crowds would be a bit much, and anyway she was too tired, it being a lovely but emotional day, as it was our first without Dad. Aaanywaaay..... we are going tomorrow, and sooooo looking forward to it. I have read the book three times, one of my favourites, and seen the stage show (including in London), but am under no illusions the movie will follow it slavishly; they never do. I am intrigued to see (hear?) how the "live" singing works. Hugh Jackman is just the icing on the cake!

Much as I love the music, I'd also love to see it remade with a strong cast as a non - musical film. Think there is one - poss b&w even - but the story is as relevent today as it was when Victor Hugo wrote it.

There is a TV series (French?) currently showing here, but I have not had a chance to look yet as it's during the day. I must record it.