Les Misérables (2018–) TV Series review, story and analysis

History of Construction and Production Challenges

Les Misérables is a British television series based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel of the same name. The series premiered in 2018 and was produced by BBC Studios and Lookout Point for BBC One in the UK and Masterpiece on PBS in the US.

The construction of Les Misérables began with the adaptation of Victor Hugo’s sprawling novel into a television format. The year of construction, 2018, marked a period when literary adaptations were gaining popularity on television, with networks and streaming platforms seeking to capitalize on beloved classics.

Adapting such a monumental work presented numerous challenges for the production team, including condensing the epic narrative into a manageable series format while remaining faithful to the source material. Additionally, recreating the rich historical setting of 19th-century France required meticulous attention to detail in set design, costumes, and cinematography.

The series also faced the task of casting actors capable of bringing Hugo’s iconic characters to life with depth and authenticity. Furthermore, adapting a story as beloved and revered as Les Misérables meant that the production team had to meet high expectations from both fans of the novel and critics.

Despite these challenges, the production of Les Misérables ultimately succeeded in bringing Hugo’s timeless tale of redemption, love, and sacrifice to the screen in a compelling and visually stunning adaptation.

The Cast and Their Roles

Les Misérables boasts an impressive ensemble cast, with each actor embodying a key character from Victor Hugo’s novel.

• Dominic West stars as Jean Valjean, the protagonist of the story, who is imprisoned for stealing bread and spends years seeking redemption for his past crimes.
• David Oyelowo portrays Javert, the relentless police inspector who is obsessed with capturing Valjean and bringing him to justice.
• Lily Collins plays Fantine, a young woman who falls on hard times and is forced into prostitution to provide for her daughter, Cosette.
• Adeel Akhtar appears as Thénardier, a cunning and opportunistic innkeeper who exploits the misfortunes of others for his own gain.
• Olivia Colman portrays Madame Thénardier, Thénardier’s wife, who is equally conniving and ruthless in her pursuit of wealth and power.

Each member of the cast delivers a nuanced and captivating performance, bringing depth and complexity to their respective characters and adding new layers of emotion and depth to Hugo’s timeless tale.

The General Concept of the Series

Les Misérables is a historical drama series that explores themes of justice, redemption, and the human spirit in 19th-century France. Set against the backdrop of social and political upheaval, the series follows the intertwining lives of its characters as they struggle to survive and find meaning in a world marked by poverty, inequality, and injustice.

At its core, Les Misérables is a story of hope and resilience, as exemplified by its protagonist, Jean Valjean, whose journey from despair to redemption serves as the heart of the narrative. The series delves into the lives of its characters with depth and compassion, offering a nuanced portrayal of their struggles and triumphs.

Through its exploration of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom, Les Misérables speaks to universal themes that resonate with audiences across generations. The series captures the essence of Hugo’s novel while also offering a fresh and compelling interpretation for modern viewers.

The Full Story of the Series

Les Misérables unfolds across multiple episodes, each following the lives of its characters as they navigate the turbulent landscape of 19th-century France. The series begins with the release of Jean Valjean from prison after serving 19 years for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister’s starving child.

As the series progresses, viewers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and aspirations. From the idealistic student Marius Pontmercy to the streetwise orphan Gavroche, the series weaves together the stories of its characters in a tapestry of love, loss, and redemption.

Central to the narrative is the conflict between Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert, whose relentless pursuit of Valjean drives much of the drama and tension in the series. As Valjean strives to atone for his past sins and live a virtuous life, Javert remains determined to bring him to justice, leading to a dramatic confrontation that will change both men forever.

Throughout its run, Les Misérables explores themes of poverty, injustice, and the struggle for social change, offering a powerful commentary on the human condition and the pursuit of freedom. The series culminates in a gripping finale that brings the various storylines to a satisfying and emotionally resonant conclusion.

Criticism and Analysis of the Series

Les Misérables has received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, with many praising its faithful adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel and its strong performances.

One of the standout aspects of Les Misérables is its commitment to capturing the spirit and themes of Hugo’s original work, from its exploration of social injustice to its portrayal of the indomitable human spirit. The series offers a faithful and emotionally resonant adaptation that honors the timeless themes and characters of the novel.

Additionally, Les Misérables has been praised for its stunning cinematography, immersive production design, and evocative score, which help to bring the world of 19th-century France to life with authenticity and atmosphere.

However, some critics have noted that the series can feel overly melodramatic at times, with certain plotlines veering into sentimentality or predictability. Additionally, while the performances of the cast are generally strong, some viewers may find certain characters or storylines to be less compelling than others.

Overall, Les Misérables stands out as a compelling and emotionally resonant adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel, offering a faithful and visually stunning portrayal of its timeless themes and characters.

Critical Reception and Position Among Similar Series

Les Misérables has received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, with many praising its faithful adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel and its strong performances. The series has been lauded for its stunning cinematography, immersive production design, and evocative score, which help to bring the world of 19th-century France to life with authenticity and atmosphere.

In terms of its position among similar series, Les Misérables stands out as a standout addition to the genre of historical dramas. While there have been numerous adaptations of Hugo’s novel in various forms, Les Misérables distinguishes itself with its faithful and emotionally resonant portrayal of the source material, as well as its stunning visuals and strong performances.

Overall, Les Misérables has solidified its place as a compelling and visually stunning adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel, earning praise for its faithful portrayal of its timeless themes and characters.

Five Series Similar to Les Misérables

1. War and Peace: Based on Leo Tolstoy’s epic novel of the same name, War and Peace is a historical drama series that follows the lives of several Russian aristocratic families during the Napoleonic Wars. Like Les Misérables, it offers a sweeping and emotionally resonant portrayal of its characters against the backdrop of historical events.
2. Poldark: Based on the novels by Winston Graham, Poldark is a historical drama series set in 18th-century Cornwall, England. Like Les Misérables, it explores themes of social injustice, love, and redemption against the backdrop of historical events.
3. Victoria: Based on the life of Queen Victoria, Victoria is a historical drama series that follows the young queen as she navigates the challenges of her reign. Like Les Misérables, it offers a rich and visually stunning portrayal of its historical setting, with strong performances and compelling storytelling.
4. North and South: Based on Elizabeth Gaskell’s novel of the same name, North and South is a historical drama series set in 19th-century England. Like Les Misérables, it explores themes of social change, class conflict, and romance against the backdrop of industrialization.
5. The Crown: Created by Peter Morgan, The Crown is a historical drama series that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Like Les Misérables, it offers a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of its characters and their struggles against the backdrop of historical events.