Les Misérables Movies: Essential Films

Other Watch Orders:
1935 - 20123 Films6h 40m4.2 Average

For those seeking the most acclaimed and accessible adaptations of Hugo's epic, this curated selection focuses on the versions that have had the greatest cultural impact. The 1935 Hollywood classic features legendary performances from Fredric March and Charles Laughton, while the 1998 epic offers a sweeping cinematic adaptation with Liam Neeson and Geoffrey Rush.

The 2012 musical adaptation represents a completely different approach, bringing the sung-through stage production to film with powerhouse performances from Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, and Russell Crowe. Together, these three films showcase the range and enduring appeal of Hugo's story across different cinematic traditions.

There is 1 other watch order available – see the link up above.

1
Les Misérables poster

Les Misérables

19351h 48m4.2
Director: Richard Boleslawski
Cast: Fredric March, Charles Laughton, Cedric Hardwicke, Rochelle Hudson, Florence Eldridge

In 19th century France, ex-convict Jean Valjean seeks redemption while being relentlessly pursued by the obsessive policeman Javert. Their cat-and-mouse chase unfolds against the backdrop of social upheaval and student revolution.

DramaHistoryRomance
2
Les Misérables poster

Les Misérables

19982h 14m4.2
Director: Bille August
Cast: Liam Neeson, Geoffrey Rush, Uma Thurman, Claire Danes, Hans Matheson

In 19th century France, ex-convict Jean Valjean struggles to rebuild his life while being relentlessly pursued by police inspector Javert. Set against the backdrop of social upheaval and revolution, this epic tale explores themes of redemption, justice, and human dignity.

CrimeDramaHistoryRomance
3
Les Misérables poster

Les Misérables

20122h 38m4.3
Director: Tom Hooper
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Sacha Baron Cohen

Based on Victor Hugo's classic novel, this musical follows Jean Valjean, a man who must evade the relentless pursuit of police inspector Javert after being imprisoned for stealing bread. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, their cat-and-mouse chase becomes intertwined with the student revolutionary movement.

HistoryDrama