Directed by:
Richard BoleslawskiScreenplay:
W.P. LipscombCinematography:
Gregg TolandCast:
Fredric March, Charles Laughton, Cedric Hardwicke, Rochelle Hudson, Florence Eldridge, John Beal, Frances Drake, Ferdinand Gottschalk, Jessie Ralph (more)VOD (1)
Plots(1)
This acclaimed version of the classic Victor Hugo tale follows the life of Jean Valjean (Fredric March), a former convict who was imprisoned for stealing bread for his sister’s family. After years in jail, Valjean attempts to readjust to life as a free man, but he finds that many are not forgiving of his past, particularly the obsessive Inspector Javert (Charles Laughton). Perpetually on the run, Valjean finds comfort in the chaos by caring for the young peasant girl Cosette (Rochelle Hudson). (Bounty Films)
(more)Reviews (1)
The differences between the French and American transcriptions of Les Misérables from 1934 and 1935 can be used to explain the full difference between European cinema and Hollywood. One could not ask for a better example. France is realistic, faithful, unafraid of extreme length, reverential (which is not to say backward in any way), formally impressive, and influenced by Impressionism. On the other hand, Hollywood classically underestimates the viewer, shrinks the main themes to the "interesting and action-packed" and tones down anything that might get the audience too excited. Personally, I have the biggest problem with how Fantine's story turned out. It doesn't sink nearly far enough to make sense and even gets its own little happy ending in the middle of the film. It is absolutely fascinating to watch both versions side by side. Nothing against the work of Fredric March, Charles Laughton, or Richard Boleslawski, but Darryl F. Zanuck knew what he was doing. If it was just a historical rarity, I wouldn't mind. But it was this version that influenced the rewriting of Les Misérables for generations to come, who didn't even perceive Hugo.
()