Les Misérables

Given the title Les Misérables, I would have expected a bit more of a connection to Victor Hugo's famous novel, so I'm quite disappointed. The beginning of the film and the intense ending are okay, but the subplot with the stolen lion cub seems a bit contrived to me. I was bored quite often while watching the film, not to mention that it was impossible to sympathize with anyone at all. (65%) (09/09/2021)

A 90% great contribution to the category of crime thrillers from the French banlieues that distinguishes itself from the competition by its effort to portray a broad spectrum of relationships between different factions and generations, which are connected by a disparate trio of police officers. But where other films ended, Les Misérables prepares the ground for a climax that will push the whole story to much stronger, more serious and more sophisticated heights. This feature-length debut, expanding the director’s short film of the same name into a more complex fresco of contemporary France, thus brings forth provocative contemplation on more general themes connected with education, patterns of behaviour and pride and rage. The themes that Mathieu Kassovitz addressed years ago in the ground-breaking Le Haine are now back with a vengeance in Les Misérables. (05/19/2019)

A powerful modern-day parallel to Victor Hugo's classic novel. It paints a bleak picture of contemporary France, a culture in decline. Watching this, it’s hard to imagine how things could turn around. The outskirts of Paris are depicted as places where even the most destitute wouldn't want to live — chaotic, lawless, and lost. The film leaves you questioning how, or if, there’s a way out of this mess. It’s a largely impersonal, almost emotionless film, but the ending hits hard and leaves a lasting impact. (06/16/2021)

France at its peak and one of the best films of the year! Inspired by the events of 2005 and set in present-day Montfermeil, where Victor Hugo's “Les Misérables” was set in 1862. The film has no story and no positive characters, taking place over the course of one tense day. It will make you anxious, uncomfortable, your hair stand on end, your mouth wide open!!! Here, the world's greatest scum has gathered and after watching the film, you will avoid France with the greatest of arcs. There are swine cops, gypsies, blacks, Muslims, child gangs, in short, I have not been as uncomfortable watching a movie as I was here for a long time. The film has a very fast pace, nerve wracking suspense, an oppressive atmosphere, chilling scenes and the final child revenge is razor sharp! I recommend this one to the French. Story****, Action****, Humor>No, Violence****, Entertainment*****, Music***, Visuals****, Atmosphere******, Suspense****.9/10. (04/22/2020)

The French once again focused on drama (a genre that has been outperforming American productions in recent years, as they really know how to do it), and once again, they succeeded. Apart from the setting and a single verbal reference, this film has nothing to do with "Les Misérables"; it’s more about showing viewers what suburban life looks like today. Boy gangs, adult gangs, and police who also have to play a dirty game. It will definitely leave you feeling unsettled. I truly admire the naturalistic touch; the French always manage to wrap me around their finger with their uncompromising approach. The main character is quite a likable guy, but in this harsh environment, you can’t play fair or by any rules; it’s more like the law of the jungle. Don’t expect any high-octane action, but there are plenty of tense moments, like the scene with the lion, which had me on the edge of my seat—a masterfully built moment. And the harsh ending topped it off; I was expecting something in a similar vein, but this was surprising. It’s up to each viewer to interpret it as they wish. For me, it’s a solid 7.5/10. (12/03/2020)