Movie Review: Les Miserables is epic poetry from the heart

How do you adapt to screen an epic

In a way that’s not been done before

An epic so well known, an epic so often seen

In a way that leaves us wanting more

Well, it can be done, and marvellously so

Shows Tom Hooper, in his work of art

So a magnum opus musical like Les Miserables deserves

Not a review, but some poetry from the heart

Set in that time in 19th century France

When the rich just got richer

And the poor, condemned, weren’t given a chance

This has gone on too long, this needs to change

One ex-convict Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) took the stance

He forged a new identity, rose to the top

Found redemption by being honest and kind

But he was hunted by Javert (Russell Crowe), a cop

Whom duty, law and an oath had made blind

Many a people, and many a stories, were born, and died

In this 17-year-long journey that Valjean undertook

There was political turmoil and a tragic student revolution

As the very foundation of France shook

Hooper captures the suffering and pain

So heart-breakingly well on screen

But there’s hope, love and morality too

And rousing performances, seldom seen

Hugh Jackman is a revelation;  an unbelievable talent!

Russell Crowe is so remarkable, he makes his villain seem gallant

Anne Hathaway, in a short role, makes a huge impact

And the supporting cast leaves you sweating; phew, can they act!

The visuals are glorious and stunning

The soul-stirring music will make you feel alive

The sets are grand and majestic

The filmmaking shows tremendous grit and drive.

Take our word and flock the theaters

Les Miserables is one to see

This is moviemaking at its finest

This is cinema the way it was meant to be