Les Misérables
Performance & Direction: Les Misérables Review
Last updated: February 17, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Les Misérables (1998) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Les Misérables features a noteworthy lineup led by Liam Neeson . Supported by the likes of Geoffrey Rush and Uma Thurman , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Les Misérables
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1998, Les Misérables is a Crime, Drama, History, Romance film directed by Bille August. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Liam Neeson.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. In 19th century France, Jean Valjean, a man imprisoned for stealing bread, must flee a relentless policeman named Javert. The pursuit consumes both men's lives, and soon Valjean finds himself in the midst of the student revolutions in France. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Liam Neeson's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: Les Misérables
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Bille August, Les Misérables resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to crime resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Liam Neeson, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Les Misérables reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Les Misérables Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Les Misérables draws heavily from documented historical records. As a crime, drama, history, romance film directed by Bille August, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Liam Neeson's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: Les Misérables adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Les Misérables?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Liam Neeson or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Les Misérables
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $14.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $14.1M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Les Misérables Budget
The estimated production budget for Les Misérables is $14.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Les Misérables
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Where to Watch Les Misérables Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoLes Misérables Parents Guide & Age Rating
1998 AdvisoryWondering about Les Misérables age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Les Misérables is 134 minutes (2h 14m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.2/10, and global performance metrics, Les Misérables is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1998 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Les Misérables worth watching?
Les Misérables is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 7.2/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Les Misérables parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Les Misérables identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Les Misérables?
The total duration of Les Misérables is 134 minutes, which is approximately 2h 14m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
