Les Misérables - Watch Order: 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.

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, 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.

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, 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.

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

An adaptation of the successful stage musical based on Victor Hugo's classic novel set 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.

HistoryDrama