Les Mis

Les Mis is a captivating series brought to life by the prestigious PBS Masterpiece in collaboration with BBC, aired between 2018 and 2019. This six-part adaptation of Victor Hugo's renowned 19th-century novel, 'Les Miserables,' offers a unique and engaging take on an enduring classic, delving into the intricate tales of fate, redemption, and the human spirit grappling with life's adversities.

The series, unlike its musical renditions, remains devoted to the depth of Hugo's original narrative. It brilliantly uncloaks every intricate detail and character nuance scribbled in the pages of the classic, while still maintaining the palpable tension and emotional resonance that has made Les Mis an enduring masterpiece over the years.

Set against the backdrop of post-revolutionary France, the series follows the life of Jean Valjean, a former convict struggling to escape the haunting chains of his past. Valjean's journey of redemption and self-discovery is punctuated by his relentless evasion of the law, embodied in the sombre character of Inspector Javert, a man sworn to bringing Valjean to justice. Their lifelong cat-and-mouse game sets the tone for a gripping narrative fraught with twists and turns.

The wider canvas of the story also illuminates an array of unforgettable characters- the desperate and destitute Fantine, the opportunistic and comic innkeepers, the Thénardiers, their street-smart daughter Éponine, the brave and nave revolutionary Marius, and the innocent Cosette, who becomes the nucleus of Valjean's quest for redemption.

Weighty themes such as justice, moral ambiguity, love, and sacrifice are skillfully encapsulated throughout the narrative, making it a profound social critique of its time that manages to retain its relevance even today. The episodic narrative provides the characters, plot, and themes enough breathing room to fully flourish, offering a hearty saga that progressively matures with each passing episode.

Under the proficient direction of Tom Shankland and flawless scriptwriting of Andrew Davies, the series skillfully takes the viewers on a journey through the mean streets of Paris and the country's rural landscape. It underscores not merely the dilemma of its central characters, but also the societal tensions that wrap around them.

The character development is one of the exceptional strengths of this adaptation. Instead of mere caricatures, each character is presented with elaborate backstories, leaning into their vulnerabilities and moral complexities. An example is Inspector Javert, whose character is more humanized and multifaceted, thus adding a new layer to his relationship with Valjean.

Les Mis also stands out for its grand production. The attention to detail, whether it be in the design of the costumes worn by characters or the architectural settings, add authenticity to the timeline and the social circumstance. This, combined with the masterful cinematography, intensifies the emotional gravity of the series while holding on to its aesthetic appeal.

The performances are also stellar. With a top-tier cast that includes Dominic West, David Oyelowo, and Lily Collins, each actor brings the characters to life with sincerity, power, and undeniable allure. Every performance weaves deeply into the viewer's sentiment, making it easy to resonate with the characters' trials, tribulations, and triumphs.

Overall, Les Mis is a highly evocative and visually sumptuous drama that brings Hugo's masterpiece to life with unprecedented depth and richness. It nudges against the boundaries of the heroic and tragic, capturing even the harsh realities of life, love, and society. But more importantly, it is a tale of the enduring human spirit, mirroring the many facets of our collective struggle and aspiration.

For those familiar with the beloved musical, Les Mis offers a different, refreshingly deep lens into the core of Victor Hugo's creation. For newcomers, it serves as a comprehensive guide to one of literature's most iconic works. It is a series that will captivate viewers with its intricate storytelling, powerful performances, and its timeless tale of mercy, redemption, and revolution.