Jean Valjean: the moving story of a broken man, starring Grégory Gadebois

Published by Julie de Sortiraparis · Published on January 14, 2025 at 05:41 p.m.
Directed by Éric Besnard, Jean Valjean looks at the origins of the famous character from Les Misérables. Starring Grégory Gadebois, Bernard Campan and Alexandra Lamy, this drama explores redemption and humanity in a society marked by injustice.

Éric Besnard, director of such films as L'Esprit de famille and Délicieux, is back with an ambitious project: Jean Valjean. Adapted from Victor Hugo's literary masterpiece, this film delves into the origins of the mythical character from Les Misérables. Played by Grégory Gadebois, Jean Valjean is presented here in all his complexity: a man shattered by nineteen years in prison, struggling against the anger and hatred inside him. He is surrounded by a prestigious cast: Bernard Campan as the benevolent Monseigneur Bienvenu, Isabelle Carré and Alexandra Lamy as the priest's sister and servant respectively.

The film promises an intimate and poignant exploration of redemption and the inner struggle of a man in search of humanity, against a backdrop of violence and rejection.

Where and when can you see Jean Valjean in France?

Jean Valjean will be released in cinemas shortly.

Synopsis: 1815. Jean Valjean (Grégory Gadebois) is released from prison after nineteen years of hard labor. Riddled with anger, injustice and violence, he has become a dangerous animal who no longer trusts anyone or anything. One evening, after being rejected many times, he finds refuge with a priest. Monseigneur Bienvenu (Bernard Campan) lives there with his sister (Isabelle Carré) and a single servant (Alexandra Lamy). Surprised by the warmth of the welcome, Jean Valjean's criminal convictions are shaken. He has to choose between the definitive actions inspired by his hatred of the world and accepting the helping hand.

Jean Valjean will appeal above all to fans of historical dramas and passionate readers of Victor Hugo. Those who have been impressed by previous adaptations of Les Misérables (notably the 2012 film starring Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway, or the various TV series) will find a unique perspective here, focusing on the origins of the main character.

Viewers looking for human stories, deeply rooted in moral and social dilemmas, should appreciate this intimate approach. The film may also appeal to admirers of French cinema driven by performances from established actors. However, those looking for an epic fresco or a narrative covering all the events of the original work may find this tighter angle less engaging.

With Jean Valjean, Éric Besnard offers an intimate and poignant retelling of one of French literature's most emblematic characters. Boasting a prestigious cast, this drama promises to question notions of redemption and humanity, while offering a new perspective on the universal story of Les Misérables. A work to keep a close eye on for fans of profound, timeless tales.

This article is based on information available online; we have not yet viewed the film or series mentioned.

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