Jean Valjean

Jean Valjean

The origin story of one of literature’s greatest heroes.

2025 · 99 min · ★ 6.2 · Drama, History

Jean Valjean is released from prison after nineteen years of hard labor, violence, and suffering. Filled with anger and a deep sense of injustice, he has become a dangerous man who trusts no one and nothing. When he arrives in a small village in Provence, he is repeatedly turned away. Desperate, he unknowingly finds refuge at the house of Bishop Bienvenu, who lives simply, with his sister and a single servant. There, he is surprised by their warm welcome, and his inner demons start to waver. But the temptation to be what society sees in him still haunts him, and he steals the Bishop’s silverware. When the police ultimately catches him, the Bishop forgives him and gifts him the candlesticks. This acts becomes the starting point of Jean Valjean’ transformation into a new man who reclaims his humanity.

Directed by Éric Besnard · Written by Éric Besnard

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Cast

Grégory Gadebois Jean Valjean
Bernard Campan Bienvenu Myriel
Isabelle Carré Baptistine Myriel
Alexandra Lamy Madame Magloire
Dominique Pinon Boîte à Mots
Albert Dupontel Claude Gueux
Laura Behague Une paysanne
Romane Libert La gamine
Patrick Pineau Le vieux citoyen
Loup Cousteil Jean Valjean (young)
Ernest Mourier
Claire Ruppli

Make it a double feature

3h 38m together

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