Star-studded “Les Miserables” movie adaptation releases official trailer

Universal has finally released the official full-length trailer to the highly anticipated “Les Miserables” and it is sure to give you goosebumbs. Directed by Tom Hooper (“The King’s Speech), the big screen adaptation of the hugely successful musical, based on Victor Hugo’s novel from 1862, is filled with a star-studded cast and the new trailer promises a film nothing short of epic.

Set in 19th century France, the short trailer is comprised of film clips arranged to Anne Hathaway’s rendition of the musical’s most prominent song “I Dreamed a Dream.” Playing the malnourished and miserable Fantine, a prostitute dying of tuberculosis who is desperately trying to provide for her daughter, Anne Hathaway is the clear star of the trailer. The strength and haunting quality to her voice gives the song a pure untouched quality that is sure to surprise and please even the most avid fan. Her rendition is hypnotic and heartbreaking; the vocals apparently recorded live while filming which gives the song the raw quality that makes it so remarkable.

However, while Hathaway is clearly the star of the trailer, don’t be fooled into thinking she is the female star of the film. If anyone knows anything about this old story, Fantine won’t be in it for long. Her daughter Cosette, played by the vibrant Amanda Seyfriend, and the tragic Eponine, played by Samantha Barks, share the female lead spotlight instead. Also starring in the film is musical veteran Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean, a reformed thief whose life is made hell by lawman Javert, played by Russell Crowe. It’s a shame we don’t get to hear them sing in the trailer but Universal is bound to release more trailers between now and the film’s Dec 14, 2012 release date, so it is highly likely that we’ll get to hear them sing soon enough.

With the stunning visuals, the trailer reflects a dismal and gritty 19th century France. You see gorgeous shots of the French rebels in battle, bleak scenes of Jean Valjean laboring in turbulent waters, and the suffering Fantine being sheered like a sheep. The tones, costuming, makeup, and gaunt look to the actors make the trailer into a heavy promise of what’s to come.

With other stars like Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, and Eddie Redmayne on board as well, it’s safe to assume that “Les Miserables” is going to be a box-office hit. It’s rare that Hollywood is able to completely pull off a musical adaptation without perverting the material and it seems that Tom Hooper rose beautifully to the occasion. “Les Miserables” just may be that rare and special musical adaption that pleases fans of the musical genre while still appealing to the general audience.

Check out the haunting trailer below and make sure to leave a comment and share your thoughts!