I was fortunate enough to attend a pre-screening of the movie adaptation of Les Miserables. I thought it was wonderful and I'd see it again! Knowing live vocals were filmed and used made this seem like a hybrid between live theater and film making - brilliant! Some of my fellow movie-goers did not like the increased amount of face time/close ups used, but I did. I found it to be an intimate way of connecting the audience to the characters. Anne Hathaway's rendition of "I Dreamed a Dream" was heart-breaking and imperfect - a fantastic interpretation and invitation for the audience to experience her pain and disappointment in the hand life had dealt Fantine. The cast was great and I was surprised by Russell Crowe's singing ability. I do think he was overpowered by other cast members (Hugh Jackman, for example) but for the shoes he had to fill, he did a fine portrayal of Javert. My favorite cast member was Eponine. It could be because I have a flair for the dramatic and can sympathize with unrequited love from my youth or it could be that Samantha Barks was brilliant. In short, if you're not a theater snob, have enjoyed Les Mis or are giving it a go for the first time, I don't think you'll be disappointed.
