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59% Critic Match
Jean Valjean
“The origin story of one of literature’s greatest heroes.”
5.9 / 10• 2025• 1h 39m•NR• French
DramaHistory
Storyline
Jean Valjean is released from prison after nineteen years of hard labor, violence, and suffering. Filled with anger and a deep sense of injustice, he has become a dangerous man who trusts no one and nothing. When he arrives in a small village in Provence, he is repeatedly turned away. Desperate, he unknowingly finds refuge at the house of Bishop Bienvenu, who lives simply, with his sister and a single servant. There, he is surprised by their warm welcome, and his inner demons start to waver. But the temptation to be what society sees in him still haunts him, and he steals the Bishop’s silverware. When the police ultimately catches him, the Bishop forgives him and gifts him the candlesticks. This acts becomes the starting point of Jean Valjean’ transformation into a new man who reclaims his humanity.
Cast & Crew
Grégory Gadebois
Jean Valjean
Lead
Bernard Campan
Bienvenu Myriel
Isabelle Carré
Baptistine Myriel
Alexandra Lamy
Madame Magloire
Dominique Pinon
Boîte à Mots
Albert Dupontel
Claude Gueux
Laura Behague
Une paysanne
Romane Libert
La gamine
What People Are Saying
3.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Éric Besnard's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
3.0
“Every frame feels alive. Jean Valjean is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
