Publisher: Tyndale Entertainment
ISBN-13: 978-1589973947
Synopsis:
The story that has thrilled millions comes to life in a brand new way in Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's Les Miserables. This audio drama beautifully portrays the redeeming power of forgiveness through the story of Jean Valjean, an embittered convict whose life is changed by a single act of kindness. Recorded in London with some of England's finest actors, it will mesmerize adults and families alike.
My thoughts:
Victor Hugo's masterpiece 'Les Miserables' has captivated countless generations with its dark tale of Christian love, atonement and forgiveness in spite of the cruel injustice of the legal system of the epoch.
Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's fresh perspective on the fascinating recount of one man's trials after 19 years of inhuman captivity brings to life the story of Jean Valjean, Javert and Fantine!
There have been many movies made of this heartbreaking story of hardships and redemption set in tumultuous France 19th century but Radio Theatre gives yet again a remarkable approach to humanity's frailness in the face of adversity.
As some of you remember I had the opportunity to review another well known title from Focus on the Family Radio Theatre, Oliver Twist (see review HERE) and both offers a remarkable cast.
British finest talents such as actors Brian Blessed, Leo McKern and Geoffrey Palmer's are lending their voices to 'Les Miserables' in an unforgettable reenactment of the well known tale.
The culmination of the story of Jean Valjean hiding from his tumultuous past and Javert's oppressive hunt is the triumph of good over evil despite the many obstacles in his intended path.
It is important to add Radio Theatre's at times graphic details of life in Jean Valjean's era is absolutely stunning. There is little need of visual special Fx to imagine the poverty and degradation in that timeline period!
That said, Focus on the Family took pains in producing a story fitting for an audience of age 12 and over. Whilst some might argue specific elements have been removed for family concerns, the endeavour is to be applauded, particularly for its haunting musical score!
5 Stars!!
About Focus on the Family:
Focus on the Family is a global Christian ministry dedicated to helping families thrive. Providing help and resources for couples to build healthy marriages that reflect God’s design, and for parents to raise their children according to morals and values grounded in biblical principles.
Read more about their passion and purpose on their website (HERE) and their partnership with CBD store (HERE).
I received this RADIO THEATRE CD free from TYNDALE as part of their blogger review program. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
After going to see the Broadway musical with the original cast twice years ago, I thought the newest film in theaters released Christmas Day could have certainly done without some of its visuals of degradation. I believe a couple of scenes were too explicit and taken to extremes that not even the live musical ever went to. I thought the rest of the film was good, but would have appreciated a couple of details left to the viewers own imagination.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing, Noelle. Always good to stop by.
XOXO's,
Marcia
Nice to hear your input Marcia (shared by son and fiancee as well).
ReplyDeleteVictor Hugo himself left nothing to imagination and not unlike Emile Zola, described the epoch's sordity as it was in its fullest.
That said, I would prefer not to 'see it' on the screen either! Whilst Victor Hugo's main reason for in depth descriptions was to educate society, filmakers too often prefer sensationalism and the green buck to Art! Ugh!