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Les Misérables, movie musical, book lover's thoughts

FINALLY, I saw Les Misérables, the latest film installment. It only took this long because I have kids, and arranging the sitter and coaxing my husband to use our precious date night for this, well, these things take time. (Thank you for being coaxed, dear husband.)

Thoughts in random order!

Evidently, when someone says, "Who goes there?", you should not answer, "French revolution." Doesn't go over well.

Extreme close-ups during singing: a few too many of them. It was like Sinead O'Connor's "Not...
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Published on January 12, 2013 22:55
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message 1: by Scott-robert (new)
Jan 15, 2013 12:52PM

Scott-robert Shenkman My wife took me to see Les Mis on Broadway for my 23rd birthday – way back in the ancient days of 1989. Five minutes into the show, I fell asleep. There was a theory back then that if you liked Phantom of the Opera, you would hate Les Mis and vice versa. I felt like I was cheating on the Phantom or something. Plus, I was forced to read the book in 10th grade, and the Cliff Notes put me to sleep also (same for Great Expectations which I consider the worst book I’ve ever read a summary for). But I woke up just in time to see the character of Eponine come onstage. She looked familiar. I knew her! She was Natalie Toro, with whom I shared music class for one year back in middle school. So I totally stayed awake until the character died.

I went to see her backstage, and she remembered me! She introduced me to all these cast members, and I told them how wonderful they were – even though I had absolutely no idea, since I was unconscious for 90% of the show. I do want to see the movie, though I will be bringing my Kindle just in case (I do promise to stay awake when Anne Hathaway is on. Also, when the vampires and werewolves show up. Oh wait, different book).


message 2: by Chris (new)
Jan 15, 2013 05:18PM

Chris Myers LOL. I took my parents and husband to see Les Mis for Christmas. My husband fell asleep, but I absolutely loved the music and the emotion that you don't get see on stage. Crowe was probably the only singer who wasn't classically trained, but he has a beautiful tone. Loved the movie.

Les Mis didn't work for me on Broadway either. One of my friends went back to the hotel to sleep during the middle of it, and the highlight of the night was going to a bar afterward where every employee could sing, dance, and play an instrument. My recommendation is Wicked.


message 3: by Molly (new)
Jan 16, 2013 10:42AM

Molly Ringle Hah, thanks guys! I only saw Les Mis on stage once, decades ago. It was great, but in all, I think the film improves upon it by making it more personal (and with prettier scenery).

I've heard good things about Wicked from a lot of people. Will have to look that up.


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