Les Misérables

[Jamie D]

Saw the film a couple of days ago.  Went to an evening showing (6:30 PM).  The theater was not packed, about half full, but it was showing in an adjacent theater as well.

For those who have not seen the stage version, like the stage, most of the dialogue is sung in the film.  Who knew Russell Crowe could sing?

Anne Hathaway is excellent in her abbreviated role of "Fantine."  Sacha Baron Cohen provides comedic relief in his role as the innkeeper.

The film runs for over 2 1/2 hours, so don't buy the supergiant Coke at the refreshment counter, but so get the xtra Large popcorn. 

Solid 8.5 out of 10 rating.

[~RoadToTrista~]

You just said it was 23 hours long.

I like the story but ehh, it doesn't really sound appealing since I already saw the one that came out like, 10 years ago, even though this one's probably better.

[mintra]

I just saw the musical last month here in St. Louis. The show was spectacular, I was really impressed and cried many times.  I'm looking forward to seeing this movie soon.

[Jamie D]

You just said it was 23 hours long.

I like the story but ehh, it doesn't really sound appealing since I already saw the one that came out like, 10 years ago, even though this one's probably better.

Thank you for catching that typo!  Maybe it just seemed like 23 1/2 hours!! 

[Anna++]

I'm seeing it tonight, thanks for the supergiant pop warning

[Emily Aster]

Best. Musical. Ever!

How did the movie compare to the stage version? I'm dying to see the movie, but afraid it might not compare to what I'm used to.

[HthrRsln]

Everything I've heard is that it's excellent. Wish I had someone to see it with, but will probably go see it by myself.

It is a major technological advancement that allows the actors to actually sing the final vocal sound track live during the acting, instead of overdubbed later as has always been done. The actors said it made a huge difference in their ability to feel the emotions of the scene.

[Anna++]

I really liked it!  My parents thought the film was easier to follow than the stage version was (I have no idea how long ago they saw it)

[mintra]

Just saw the movie. It has emotional impact as much as the stage version. There are also more details to absorb and I can see the superb acting up close and personal. I would give a slight edge to the original stage production though because of the grandeur of the live singing and the orchestra. I will go see the movie again. Can't get enough of the lead performance from Hugh, Russell and Anne Hathaway. Not to mention the girl who played Éponine, I think she could be a break out star. I was deeply moved during her solo.

[luna nyan]

Best. Musical. Ever!

How did the movie compare to the stage version? I'm dying to see the movie, but afraid it might not compare to what I'm used to.

My quick thoughts:
1.  I will never go and pay to listen to Russell Crowe's band.
2.  I found that cutting between on the bigger numbers where multiple cast members were singing distracting.  I know it was necessity given the nature of film, but I did miss the interaction between singers on stage.
3.  "Realistic" sets versus stylised stage sets.  Take your pick.
4.  I think Sacha Baren Cohen steals the show.