Les Miserables

   The new movie musical, Les Miserables was a stunning success. From the moment it begins, to its final moments it maintains its mesmerizing affect. The music is fantastic! None can deny that great power lies behind the songs of this movie, songs such as "Do You Hear the People Sing" and "Bring Him Home". The reoccurring theme of the two candlesticks that were the gift of the priest was a detail that stood out and attests to the great amount of work put into making every detail of this film shine. There was a very apparent spiritual twist throughout the movie that was often highlighted by the smallest of details. The movie presented a very strong message of the battle between law and grace which was made clear through the characters of Jean Valjean and Javert. Javert symbolized the law, and the path one can take in trying to please God by adhering to every letter of the law, which is impossible for mere men. Valjean symbolizes grace; he accepted God's help because he new that he could never meet the law on his own. The priest saved his soul for God which marked the turning point in Valjean's life. This theme of grace is highlighted not only through the repetition of the candle sticks, but also through other things. For example, when Valjean prayed over the sleeping Marius at the barricade, a large eye was seen in the background of the shot which could be interpreted to symbolize the eye of God watching over him, protecting him, hearing his prayer.
     The only real complaints that I have to voice about the film, is that it strayed too far into sexual themes particularly in the "Master of the House" number and of course the "Lovely Ladies" number which was of course unavoidable in a strict film adaptation of the play. These two scenes do serve important roles within the story, but perhaps could have been filmed in a way that was more suggestive of prostitution rather than simply showing the audience. My other main complaint would be Russel Crowe's singing was not up to the same standard as many of the other actors and actresses in the movie. He could have benefited from a few vocal lessons to improve his professionalism in that area of his performance.  Other than those two things, the film was brilliant and VERY well made. It is a favorite that will stick in the memories of all who watch long after the credits roll.