1815. War-torn France has been defeated at the battle of Waterloo. Convict Jean Valjean is nearing the end of his sentence in Toulon after serving 19 years for a petty crime and is released by the ambitious prison guard Javert. Convinced he will reoffend, Javert forms a deep personal hatred of Valjean.
Andrew Davies' six-part drama adaptation of Victor Hugo's 19th century classic will delve deep into the many layers of Hugo's story, revelling in Jean Valjean and Javert's cat-and-mouse relationship, against the epic backdrop of France at a time of civil unrest. With striking intensity and contemporary resonance, Hugo's novel explores the struggles and triumphs of the underclass and the quest for a better life. The six part television adaptation of the renowned book will vividly and faithfully bring to life the vibrant and engaging characters, the spectacular and authentic imagery and, above all, the incredible yet accessible story that was Hugo's lifework.
Les Miserables - Series 1, Episode 1 Synopsis and Schedule