dramatic_mizfit
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Is Les Mis Next?(I don't know if this has been discussed before, but...)
With all of the buzz for musicals making it to the silver screen, even big musicals like Phantom, do you think there's a possibility we might see a musical version of Les Mis hit the theatres in the future?
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HappyMonkey
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Its a possibility, but I don't know if I'd like it.
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Lucy Harris
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I don't know...it depends on who wants to work on it, who is starring in it, etc. On the whole I'm opposed to the idea because things can go terribly wrong. (i.e., cast a "bankable" hollywood actor who can't sing well as one of the leads).
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Ghost
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If there was going to be a film, I think a great choice for Valjean could be Treat Williams. He's got a strong tenor voice, although haven't heard him sing after "Hair" so I have no idea how his singing is these days. Hugh Jackman could be Enjolras or maybe Javert. Timothy Spall could make great Thenardier. I don't if he he can sing, though.
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The Very Angry Woman
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| Ghost wrote: | | Hugh Jackman could be Enjolras or maybe Javert. |
He was offered Javert about seven years ago, in the Australian revival production. He turned it down.
I agree with you, though -- I think he could be a fantastic screen Javert. The problem becomes all the automatic (and inappropriate) swooning that's bound to happen.
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Alanna
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I don't think so actually, I think the plot's too much for the average cinema-goer. Whereas at the theatre, people know what they're getting.
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Piece of Crap 76
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I would really just have a professional video taped show (not concert like TAC).
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GAVR0CHE
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I think its better as a Musical.
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dramatic_mizfit
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| Piece of Crap 76 wrote: | | I would really just have a professional video taped show (not concert like TAC). |
Yeah, I'd really like to see them do that like they did with the Cats video...I know a lot of people didn't like that, but it's the show, and it's not in concert form.
Anything would be better than the Liam Neeson version. (I only disliked that because it was so distant from the book.)
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Frank_Rind
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Personally I don't think Les Miserables would transfer well to the big screen. I feel as if the experience is far too theatrical to be duplicated effectively in the cinema.
I feel similarly about the movie adaptation of Evita...it works well on stage, but on screen feels like a two-hour-plus music video. Its still entertaining to an extent, but I don't want the same thing to happen to Les Mis. I'll make up my mind for good after I've seen Phantom of the Opera, but right now I'd vote for a video production of the actual show over a motion picture treatment.
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GlamorousGriz
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| Piece of Crap 76 wrote: | | I would really just have a professional video taped show (not concert like TAC). |
Me too..... only I'd like the TAC people to do it..... or Randal keith as Jean Valjean because that just is just freaking awesome!
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Jordan
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Yeah, I'd take a cats-style recording over a location shoot for Les Mis. However, Cats was flat for me because I feel that Cats requires an audience. The Thenardiers work very well with audience appreciation but are curiously flat without it. (See Stage By Stage, The Making of Les Miserables video for why.)
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Moci
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I'd quite like to see a 'les Mis' film, but as a well done video of the stage show, 'Miss Saigon' would be amazing as a feature film though.
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Jordan
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Yeah, Miss Saigon would work as a feature film.
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Lucy Harris
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That, I agree with. I think Miss Saigon would be a smash on the big screen (provided they cast the right people--that's the only problem I have with Hollywood and how it handles movie musicals). It would translate so well, and the setting (Vietnam War) is something that the audience will be familiar with. Can you imagine how incredible that scene with the helicopter would be with the full-blown production values that a movie receives? Right now I can hear "Why God Why" in my head...as how I think it would sound played by a full-blown symphony orchestra that only Hollywood could afford. (Can you imagine the London Symphony playing the music for the songs? *Gets goosebumps*)
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mizzie
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| Piece of Crap 76 wrote: | | I would really just have a professional video taped show (not concert like TAC). |
I also agree. I enjoy the TAC, but it's just not the same without it looking like the show. It seems akward. The only problem is, if the movie is out people will just buy it, and they won't feel any need to go see the musical onstage. I mean, I'm sure there will still be a following for the live musical, but it will be smaller.
This is why I like Phantom - it's like the musical, only changed a bit for the big screen. That way, people will see the movie, but also have a need or want to see the musical live.
So, in conclusion, in my opinion, a tape of the show would be nice if nothing else was possible, but I would prefer to have a VERY SLIGHTLY Hollywood-ized version of the show.
mizzie.
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Piece of Crap 76
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| mizzie wrote: | The only problem is, if the movie is out people will just buy it, and they won't feel any need to go see the musical onstage.
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Unless they didn't feel like seeing the same actors perform over and over.
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NoOneMournsTheWicked
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If it's going to be a movie, I hope it holds off long enough that I can have established myself as an actress in Hollywood, so I would have a shot at playing Cosette...My friends and I discuss this constantly
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javertsw
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I wouldn't like to see the TAC actors. They are far too old now (and weren't the best cast in the first place). Namely Judy Kuhn, Lea Salonga, Michael Maguire and Michael Ball will definately be too old for their characters who should be played by actors in their twenties. (If not late teens for Eponine and Cosette).
I'm not sure about a film. The first thing that would annoy me was if they go the casting wrong. I mean imagine if they cast Orlando Bloom as Marius, or something like that.
I would love to see a good film adaptation of the book (I havent seen a decent one yet) rather than of the musical. Maybe once the show has been taken off the West End. I don't know.
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dramatic_mizfit
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| javertsw wrote: | | I'm not sure about a film. The first thing that would annoy me was if they go the casting wrong. I mean imagine if they cast Orlando Bloom as Marius, or something like that. |
That thought makes me shudder. 
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NoOneMournsTheWicked
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| dramatic_mizfit wrote: | | javertsw wrote: | | I'm not sure about a film. The first thing that would annoy me was if they go the casting wrong. I mean imagine if they cast Orlando Bloom as Marius, or something like that. |
That thought makes me shudder. |
Oh god, wish it away, wish it away...That thought will haunt my dreams forever
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dramatic_mizfit
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| NoOneMournsTheWicked wrote: | | dramatic_mizfit wrote: | | javertsw wrote: | | I'm not sure about a film. The first thing that would annoy me was if they go the casting wrong. I mean imagine if they cast Orlando Bloom as Marius, or something like that. |
That thought makes me shudder. |
Oh god, wish it away, wish it away...That thought will haunt my dreams forever |
Reminds me of the topic that was (I think) on the Fiddler on the Roof forum, someone was mentioning the fact that Vin Diesel was being considered for Tevye...dear god.
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piscesmoni
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Interesting, I just thought of how wonderful Miss Saigon would be onscreen this morning...I'm just psychic like that 
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crazychica
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Am I the only one who could see Jim Carey playing Thenardier? I can very easily see him singing Master of the House/Beggars at the Feast, and I could see him pulling of the less comedic parts, like Dog eats Dog. I went to see the Student Edition, and for some reason, the person playing Thenardier really made me think of Jim Carey. Not sure how well he can sing though, but Theardier doesn't need an amazingly beautiful voice.
When I was watching the Tony's performance of One Day More, the first person I thought of that could play Enjolras was Jackman. He would probably make a great Javert too, but I think he'd be a better Enjolras. Though it would be a little funny to see Hugh Jackman dressed up in Javert gear.
| The Very Angry Woman wrote: | | I agree with you, though -- I think he could be a fantastic screen Javert. The problem becomes all the automatic (and inappropriate) swooning that's bound to happen. |
Exactly what I was thinking. YOu're not supposed to swoon at Javert. And do we really want to know what might happen if we not only have eppieboppers but javertiboppers?
I also agree that Treat Williams would also be good for Valjean. I was actually just watching Hair this morning (god that movie is like Hair on more pot.) and if he can still sing like that, he'd be great for Valjean.
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NoOneMournsTheWicked
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I like the idea of Treat Williams as Valjean...I also think Viggo Mortenson would be good...
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piscesmoni
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hehehe, javertiboppers...
Anyway, I was browsing on CafeMusain and I saw a post regarding a Les Mis movie, or more appropriate, the lack of a movie.
(Thanks to Leanna from CafeMusain)
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"Les Miserables": Columbia TriStar had a five-year option, which has lapsed. "The rights are back with us and, regular as clockwork, there is consistent interest from one person or another. I have no doubt it will get made," says Nick Allott, the No. 2 man at Cameron Mackintosh Ltd.
Alan Parker, Jean-Jacques Annaud, Bruce Beresford, Richard Attenborough and Oliver Stone were among the filmmakers who came and went. "What most people discovered," says Allott, "is that it's so damned near perfect onstage, (they're) not quite sure, without a completely radical reworking, how it would work onscreen.
-From Variety
===============================================
Too bad the article on Yahoo was written in Oct. and is now expired. Oh well; the least I have to say is that I definitely agree with Allott.
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Ghost
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Jim Carrey as Thenardier? no.
Thenardier should be a small, very ugly guy with bad teeth and a cockney accent.
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HeroTheBishop
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| GlamorousGriz wrote: | | Piece of Crap 76 wrote: | | I would really just have a professional video taped show (not concert like TAC). |
Me too..... only I'd like the TAC people to do it..... or Randal keith as Jean Valjean because that just is just freaking awesome! |
Yeah. That would be great. Randal Keith is amazing.
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Piece of Crap 76
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Randal Keith as JVJ, Tewksy as Javert.
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piscesmoni
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Did you see Tewsk.? I heard him on CafeMusain and he is awesome. I was sad he left the tour before it came here. 
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Piece of Crap 76
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Yes, yes I did. He's better than Quast I say.
His confrontation and Fantine's Arrest were amazing. He keeps the song as it is, unlike Quast, but has such a perfect voice for Javert that his lack of acting really doesn't matter.
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dramatic_mizfit
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| crazychica wrote: | | Am I the only one who could see Jim Carey playing Thenardier? |
No. I can see it too, strangely enough. Carey's a good character actor, I'm sure he could pull it off; but then there is the singing voice thing.
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javertsw
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Carey no way as Thenardier. He'd do it way too over the top and too comedic.
Another bad one, which does actually seem popular, would be Nicole Kidman as Fantine. Her voice wouldn't suit it, and I just don't like her as an actor.
I wish they could do a film without hollywood actors.
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The Very Angry Woman
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| javertsw wrote: | | Carey no way as Thenardier. He'd do it way too over the top and too comedic. |
Not neccessarily. I take it you haven't seen "Doing Time on Maple Drive."
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dramatic_mizfit
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| javertsw wrote: |
I wish they could do a film without hollywood actors. |
Yeah, I hear that. But, it is all about the money, so I wouldn't get hopes up there.
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javertsw
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| The Very Angry Woman wrote: | | javertsw wrote: | | Carey no way as Thenardier. He'd do it way too over the top and too comedic. |
Not neccessarily. I take it you haven't seen "Doing Time on Maple Drive." |
Yeah I haven't. I guess he's quite serious in it?
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BenjaminLevi
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I could see Johnny Depp as Thenardier.
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Aimee
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Joining the discussion late, sorry, but for the record, I do think it would make a great film but now isn't the right time for it, I think it will be a few more years yet [once I am well known enough to direct it  ].
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dramatic_mizfit
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| Aimee wrote: | | Joining the discussion late, sorry, but for the record, I do think it would make a great film but now isn't the right time for it, I think it will be a few more years yet [once I am well known enough to direct it ]. |
Absolutely. I'd like to see that; a true Les Mis fan bring it to the screen, that way it would be done correctly!
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Lucy Harris
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Absolutely, I'd say the same for Miss Saigon.
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The Very Angry Woman
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| javertsw wrote: | | Yeah I haven't. I guess he's quite serious in it? |
Very; he played a recovering alcoholic.
The movie was made before he became well-known for comedy, though, so take that into consderation.
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Frank_Rind
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| javertsw wrote: | | I would love to see a good film adaptation of the book (I havent seen a decent one yet) rather than of the musical. |
Have you seen the French miniseries with Gerard Depardieu, John Malkovich, Virginie Ledoyen and Asia Argento? It was a stunning production with fine actors and is closer to the book than any of the other film versions I have seen. If you haven't seen it, I recommend you seek it out. The only weak point, and it is a small complaint, is that Marius, played by Enrico Lo Verso, is disturbingly ugly, especially next to Virginie Ledoyen, who is the perfect Cosette.
It also might interest all to know that, among his many other talents, Jim Carrey is a trained musical theatrist. One can sample his musical talents during the impromptu musical number found in 'The Mask'. The song he sings isn't particularly difficult or rangey, but Thenardier doesn't exactly have to belt high As and Bs all over the place like certain other characters in the show.
As for the 'Miss Saigon' topic...when I first heard the Cd I imagined that it would translate well to the big screen. Its story is a lot smaller, intimate and more focussed than that of 'Les Miserables', which gives the characters a lot more room to develop. 'Miss Saigon' could even work well in a non-musical adaptation also.
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Moci
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| Frank_Rind wrote: |
The only weak point, and it is a small complaint, is that Marius, played by Enrico Lo Verso, is disturbingly ugly, especially next to Virginie Ledoyen, who is the perfect Cosette. |
Another small complaint is that they don't sing?
Joking aside, I'd really like to see that, I've heard a lot about it and it's supposed to be a good adaptation of the book, which I love, possibly more more than the musical (Although I've listened to the musical more than I've read the book for obvious reasons).
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Aimee
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| dramatic_mizfit wrote: | | Aimee wrote: | | Joining the discussion late, sorry, but for the record, I do think it would make a great film but now isn't the right time for it, I think it will be a few more years yet [once I am well known enough to direct it ]. |
Absolutely. I'd like to see that; a true Les Mis fan bring it to the screen, that way it would be done correctly! |
I already have a lot of the screenplay mapped out in my head. Perhaps I shuld write it out one day and send it to CM.
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Piece of Crap 76
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I want a new Les Mis recording made.
With Randal Keith as Valjean and Tewksbury as Javert. I've really had enough of Quast and Wilkinson.
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Moci
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| Aimee wrote: | | dramatic_mizfit wrote: | | Aimee wrote: | | Joining the discussion late, sorry, but for the record, I do think it would make a great film but now isn't the right time for it, I think it will be a few more years yet [once I am well known enough to direct it ]. |
Absolutely. I'd like to see that; a true Les Mis fan bring it to the screen, that way it would be done correctly! |
I already have a lot of the screenplay mapped out in my head. Perhaps I shuld write it out one day and send it to CM. |
You direct, we get our usernames in the credits as 'artist consultants'! Deal?
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Fantine
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| Moci wrote: | | Aimee wrote: | | dramatic_mizfit wrote: | | Aimee wrote: | | Joining the discussion late, sorry, but for the record, I do think it would make a great film but now isn't the right time for it, I think it will be a few more years yet [once I am well known enough to direct it ]. |
Absolutely. I'd like to see that; a true Les Mis fan bring it to the screen, that way it would be done correctly! |
I already have a lot of the screenplay mapped out in my head. Perhaps I shuld write it out one day and send it to CM. |
You direct, we get our usernames in the credits as 'artist consultants'! Deal? |
She'd have to use my real name cuz everyone would get confused, lol!
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Chavaleh
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I stand by my belief that Johnny Depp would make quite an entertaining Thenardier. And after seeing the Phantom movie, I would totally support Patrick Wilson as Enjolras. Other than that, non-bankable Broadway people for the leading roles, please.
Oh, and I agree that Miss Saigon would make one kick-ass movie.
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eponine4ever
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I would definately go see LEs Miserables if they put it on the big screen. My expectations wouldn't be high, but it would be a cool experience.I think if you just got the right people to do it that it could be a pretty good film but still not anywhere near better than the show. No musical turned into a movie could be as good as the original staged show. You just don't get the whole experience of it if your watching it on a screen.
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piscesmoni
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| Chavaleh wrote: | | And after seeing the Phantom movie, I would totally support Patrick Wilson as Enjolras. |
If only Wilson could show he has charisma. From all I've seen of him, he seems sooooo boring... 
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Piece of Crap 76
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Alan Rickman as Javert? Anyone?
They could make him look taller, somehow, I'm sure. I've had it with these pipsqueak, ponytailless Javerts in movies.
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Fantine
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| Piece of Crap 76 wrote: | Alan Rickman as Javert? Anyone?
They could make him look taller, somehow, I'm sure. I've had it with these pipsqueak, ponytailless Javerts in movies. |
ALAN!!!! ALAN!!!!! YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*passes out*
(Alan is already tall!!! Did you see his hands? His HANDS BABY!!!)
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Piece of Crap 76
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Then Alan Rickman for sure.
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Aimee
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| eponine4ever wrote: | | I would definately go see LEs Miserables if they put it on the big screen. My expectations wouldn't be high, but it would be a cool experience.I think if you just got the right people to do it that it could be a pretty good film but still not anywhere near better than the show. No musical turned into a movie could be as good as the original staged show. You just don't get the whole experience of it if your watching it on a screen. |
I agree with all of that and I would put an extra bit on that-although there is nothing like a live performance a film should still be able to capture the feel of the show and bring it to a MUCH wider audience. 
I can see it now... Christmas Day 2033 [or there abouts] Kids: 'Oh no! Not Les Mis again?'
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piscesmoni
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| Piece of Crap 76 wrote: | Alan Rickman as Javert? Anyone?
They could make him look taller, somehow, I'm sure. I've had it with these pipsqueak, ponytailless Javerts in movies. |
I remember watching the Neeson/Rush version and thinking how striking the resemblence between Rush and Rickman was.
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Piece of Crap 76
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Only Rickman will be taller than Valjean and wear a ponytail
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javertsw
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I don't think Javert has to be tall, I like it when Valjean and him are the same size.
Aimee, as long as I get a part in your movie I will support you
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Piece of Crap 76
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I like it when Javert is taller and thinner. Personal preference there.
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NoOneMournsTheWicked
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I was just watching 'Sense and Sensibility' when I thought...Kate Winslet would make a suitable Fantine...would she not? She has a nice voice and if they'd want to use established stars...I think she'd be good...But feel free to throw vegetables at me if you disagree...
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Lucy Harris
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 *Throws a turnip*
No, seriously, I don't think that's a bad idea at all. It would be interesting to see her in another period piece.
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IvanP
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| Frank_Rind wrote: | | especially next to Virginie Ledoyen, who is the perfect Cosette. |
Oh wow...I loved her in this quirky French comedy-drama called Bon Voyage...but then, she played this semi-nerdy student ready to risk life and limb to protect a chemical compound...
Carrey, I must say, would just muck up the whole thing as Thenardier...He'd just have the wrong interpretation of the character and make him overly funny. I mean, Jim Carrey's a great dramatic actor when he knows humor isn't an option (i.e. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind), but when he knows that he has an opportunity to make people laugh, he takes that opportunity and just runs with it way way WAY too far...
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Aimee
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Actually, I don't think he would automatically run away with it. I have never seen him in a role where he ran away with something that didnt 'require' it. When its not needed he reigns in his madness very well.
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javertsw
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| IvanP wrote: |
Carrey, I must say, would just muck up the whole thing as Thenardier...He'd just have the wrong interpretation of the character and make him overly funny. I mean, Jim Carrey's a great dramatic actor when he knows humor isn't an option (i.e. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind), but when he knows that he has an opportunity to make people laugh, he takes that opportunity and just runs with it way way WAY too far... |
Thats what I was thinking.
I like my Javert's thin too, but not too tall.
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RainyCrystal
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since more and more popular musicals are going on the screen, i don't see why Les miz wouldn't have a chance. in fact, i'd love to see a movie musical version of les miz, and i think it would be better than all the previous les miz movies! i do wish to see Colm Wilkinson and Patti LuPone, too!
~Sissi
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C0SETTE
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I would LOVE to see Hugh Jackman as Javert. Too bad he turned the role down. :L I saw him the summer in The Boy From Oz and was absolutely astounded by his performance.
I don't think that Les Mis would really win audiences as a musical film, mainly for the fact that there is not one word of spoken dialogue, and it would be long - unless they cut stuff out and ruin it as a whole.
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Aimee
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SOM is long too, that worked. 
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Triplethreat1187
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Wait...rewind, when was Hugh Jackman considered to play Javert? Sorry, this just never occurred to me before. As far as a mainstream film version of Les Miserables goes, it worked for Phantom, which has very little dialogue, and which in my opinion seems longer and the least bit monotonous in comparison to Les Miserables (don't get me wrong, I LOVE The Phantom of the Opera, but I much prefer Les Mis). When it comes down to it, there will always be some people who simply do not enjoy live theatre, let alone mainstream-produced films of musicals...I can't really say as to whether this would be a good or a bad idea.
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The Very Angry Woman
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| Triplethreat1187 wrote: | | Wait...rewind, when was Hugh Jackman considered to play Javert? |
Click a few pages back.
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Frank_Rind
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| Triplethreat1187 wrote: | | It worked for Phantom, which has very little dialogue, and which in my opinion seems longer and the least bit monotonous in comparison to Les Miserables. |
Yes, but with 'Phantom' you have a focus on three central characters and a story with a clearly-defined beginning/middle/end structure. 'Les Miserables' has a much larger cast of central characters and a much more episodic storyline. On film, the audience will spend the first twenty minutes getting to know Valjean, then the focus shifts to Fantine for half an hour, then we're back to Valjean, then the Thenardiers, then Marius, Eponine and Cosette. Directors have had enough trouble adapting Hugo's book with dialogue, and still keeping the audience interested and the characters developed...how will they manage with three hours of music? I think that there's a possibility that a film of the musical could work, but I firmly believe the results are more likely to be disappointing than delightful.
The first question one has to ask themselves when writing a musical is "Does this story sing?" What will songs add to the story? I feel this question should be asked in some form when attempting to adapt a popular stage show into a film...what will the stage show gain from becoming a motion picture? I felt that 'Chicago' gained and 'POTO' neither gained or lost, but 'Les Mis' would almost definitely lose.
But that's just my (long) opinion.
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LeMizaholic
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The movie Les Miz!!!!!I have to say that being a monster Les Miz fan and having seen the stage version 27 times (I have no life) I feel like I might have some expertise on the subject of putting the musical to the screen.
I have thought about this a lot over the years and really am not sure how I feel regarding the movieization of what I feel is the masterpiece of musical theater.
After having seen the Phantom movie, I have to say that Les Miz may very well be possible for the screen. I absolutely adored POTO the movie. I always thought the stage version was good (just good) but this screen version has enhanced the stage version. I did enjoy it better than the stage version. It is just stunning....
Some things to consider for the movie of Les Miz:
1) This show is based on 95% emotion. Can this type of emotion transfer to the screen. Remember how you felt when you left the theater after seeing it for the first time...Can you feel that way after the movie?
2) In my opinion..the movie would have to be IDENTICAL in concept to the stage version for it to work. No adding or deleating songs or scenes or characters (remember what was done to the screen version of Annie). Just follow the show to a tee and it might work. I rather like someone's suggestion of doing a Cats like production for the screen. But Hollywood has this aversion to taking something that is perfect and really screwing it up. The idea of an unknown cast sounds wonderful as well. (RE: POTO). I want to say that I would almost rather keep my memories of the stage version (and see local productions when I can) then to see Hollywood put it to the screen and totally ruin the magic of it.
Sorry to go on with this, but just giving my two cents.
BTW: Miss Siagon is cusotm made and screaming to be made into a film.
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Aimee
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Hi no need to say "Sorry to go on with this, but just giving my two cents.
" as your two cents are very welcome. I a certain you are right it could and will one day work but with no changes to the music [also assuming they put back in the cuts].
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Moci
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I think too that with Les Mis, it'd be great, only if they revived the old tradition of an interval in the cinema. It'd allow the film to be longer without people complaining and one thing which I'd hate would be the film going straight from 'One Day More' to 'Building the Barricade' and 'On My Own'. I just can't see it working without.
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Aimee
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There could ba a sing-along-a-Les Mis like the Sound of Music. That has an interval too.
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Lucy Harris
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Re: The movie Les Miz!!!!! | LeMizaholic wrote: | | BTW: Miss Siagon is cusotm made and screaming to be made into a film. |
My sentiments exactly!
And for Les Mis: well, it is a very emotional story, and one that does go from one char to another fairly quickly. Most movie goers will walk out of a theater at that kind of thing (I know, I was there when it happened once). While the movie musical definitely seems to be back and on the rise again, I'm also wondering if anyone will do any original movie musical? A musical film that's not based on any show that exists at the moment? That would truly test Hollywood's mettle and tell if they're really good at this genre anymore or not.
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javertsw
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| Aimee wrote: | | There could ba a sing-along-a-Les Mis like the Sound of Music. That has an interval too. |
Oh, I'd so go to that!
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Meliara
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My Thenardier casting would be:
Thenardier: Jim Broadbent (of Moulin Rouge, Bridget Jones, and won an Oscar for Iris. He can be very funny, and he is a fabulous singer)
Madame Thenardier: Julie Walters (of Billy Elliot, and Harry Potter. Watch her in Billy Elliot and you'll know why. She is hilarious in a biteing sort of way. Dunno if she can sing).
Rest of cast (IMO):
Valjean: Sean Bean (apparantly he can sing, and is very good. Never heard him myself though)
Javert: Hugh Jackman (although I think Russell Crowe could do it. I also thought for half a scond about Gerard Butler, eh maybe not)
Marius: Orlando Bloom (before you all pounce on me. He trained at Guildhall in London and part of their training is singing. And he's got the school boy looks and attraction.)
Enjorlas: Patrick Wilson (He could do this, show that he's not just playing a soft guy but someone with power and a toughness. I think he could do it. And he's damn good looking too).
Cosette: Rose Byrne (from Troy, Wicker Park and Star Wars Ep. II. Don't know if she can sing, but she looks the part to me. She's someone no one has ever mentioned for this.)
Fantine: Kate Winslet (I think emotionally she could tackle this part an then some. She needs a little more singing practice but she could pull through it well. She is young enough but actually has her own kids so could relate very well).
Gavroche: Freddie Highmore (this boy is amazing! Nuff said).
Eponine: me (yea, yea. But I could do this. Give me a chance!)
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javertsw
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Julie Walters in an amazing amazing actor. One of the people I definately look up to. She would be great as Mme. Thenardier.
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LeMizaholic
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Les Miz the movie part 2I think I would love to see a movie of the show to be sure, and a sing along would be a hoot, can you imagine an audience of Eponine wannabees all singing "On my own, " in every key known to man...it would be very very scary, but histerical..
As despartely as I would love to see the movie made, I am just terrifeied of what Hollywood could/would do to it. If the creators maintain complete control (as did ALWeber in POTO) they could maintain the artistic integrety of the show and the story it represents. Personally I would not want to see anything less then a duplicate of the stage show (with locations). As i said in an earlier post, this show reaks of emotion and I just don't know how it could get the same emotion on screen as the stage. Case in point: When the barricade comes on..that is such a dramatic moment...how do you reproduce that on the screen? And the finalie...all I can picture is Val Jean, Fantine and Eponine floating up in the clouds with all the other dead, looking down on Cossette and Marius and singing "can you hear the people seing"...it COULD be sooooo cheesy and just destroy the whole emotional finalie.
As for right now, I just wish the producers would relinquish the rights so my theater could do it. I would love to play Val Jean (and I do have the voice for it) but I would also LOVE to direct it. I was a consultant for our local high school production and worked hand in hand with the director, and had the time of my life. So come on Mr. Mackintosh...give up those rights.....Please!!!!!!!
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javertsw
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True. Alot of the staging in Les Mis is the kind of thing you could only really do on stage and get the right effect. Because a film is too realistic, something like the Finale may look very weird. Plus the movement in At The End of the Day were the workers ruch forward and reach out etc, that you couldn't really do on a film. At that movement really adds to the song.
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Moci
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| javertsw wrote: | | Julie Walters in an amazing amazing actor. One of the people I definately look up to. She would be great as Mme. Thenardier. |
Julie Walters would be great as Mme. Thenardier, but I would love to see Jennifer Saunders as her. She has comedic timing, can sing, but could also bring the evil 'bite' to the role that Mme. Thenardier needs, especially in a cinema where the over-the-top comic acting doesn't work as well with no audience response for the actors to play off.
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Fantine
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They shouldn't make a Poto movie of Les Mis, but just the stage version put on DVD, somewhat like CATS. My cast would be the current London cast. But with Daniel Reeves as Marius.
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LesMisForever
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Hello
I think i once said it is possible, but i must somehow misundertood the question.
The stage version of Les Miserables is almost impossible to transfer to the screen IMO. As many said before me...too many theatrical numbers.
I mean, can you imagine ONE DAY MORE on the screen?
As for Julie Walters...she will always be "Rita" for me.
Anyone who hasn't seen "Educating Rita" yet, and looks for good acting and good story GO and see it.
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Meliara
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actually I REALLY want Julie Walters to be Mrs. Lovett in the movie version of Sweeney Todd, which is supposively gonna happen.
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javertsw
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| LesMisForever wrote: | Hello
I think i once said it is possible, but i must somehow misundertood the question.
The stage version of Les Miserables is almost impossible to transfer to the screen IMO. As many said before me...too many theatrical numbers.
I mean, can you imagine ONE DAY MORE on the screen?
As for Julie Walters...she will always be "Rita" for me.
Anyone who hasn't seen "Educating Rita" yet, and looks for good acting and good story GO and see it. |
Julie Walters is just amazing in that. Julie Walters is amazing in everything though, even the Tesco Advert or whatever it is.
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Moci
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| Fantine wrote: | | They shouldn't make a Poto movie of Les Mis, but just the stage version put on DVD, somewhat like CATS. My cast would be the current London cast. But with Daniel Reeves as Marius. |
Is he that good? I've always wondered seeing as he has a fansite...
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olly
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I definitely think its possible - if they could do "Phantom" so well, they can do Les Miserbles well. However, having said this, I feel they have the potential to butcher it: They MUST use good actors and singers.
Actually, I would prefer if they would use the original London cast. I know many would disagree arguing that the cast has had their chance etc, but would anyone agree with me in saying that seeing that cast sing the musical again in a movie - I think it would be fantastic. (Or the cast from the TAC)
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flying_pigs
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You thought the Phantom movie was good?
Back on topic, I agree with whoever said about filming it on the stage, but some people would say no as it may lose the appeal of the theatre and insted of going to the theatre they could just stay at home and watch the DVD/vid which would be cheaper!
However, nothing can beat the atmosphere when seeing Les Mis live!
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olly
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| flying_pigs wrote: | You thought the Phantom movie was good?
Back on topic, I agree with whoever said about filming it on the stage, but some people would say no as it may lose the appeal of the theatre and insted of going to the theatre they could just stay at home and watch the DVD/vid which would be cheaper!
However, nothing can beat the atmosphere when seeing Les Mis live! |
Mmmm, I thought it was pretty good. They could have done it better, but thats often always the case. I thought the actor who played Phantom did well.
NB - I haven't seen the whole thing; about half of it. I'm getting the movie for Christmas though.
As to filming it onstage, I disagree. I think if one wants to see a stage production of Les Miserables, then go to the theatre. I think if one wants to see a film adaptation of Les Miserables, then see the film. I just think that it would reduce the amounts of people going to see Les Mis at the theatre is the film was of a stage production (and it would, as the film would be a huge box office hit). So if people say "I want to see Les Mis"; they'd probably go see the film. (I am obviously generalising, but it is my view)
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javertsw
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Using the Original London Cast would be brilliant, except they are all much too old now.
If they had made a film 20 years ago, perfect... but not now.
I wouldn't like them to use the current London cast.
I don't actually think they are *that* good. No-one in the cast really stood out to me.
I think a mixture of the different casts over the last 5 years, or maybe bring some "unknowns" into it, or "knowns" who haven't been in Les Mis. (By "knowns" I mean known people in theatre, not celebrities.)
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Emperor of the Fiends
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Possible, in the sense that there's a good chance of it being filmed.
I don't think that it'll turn out all that well, however.
(And they should *not* use the OLC. As javertsw says, they're too old.)
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olly
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| javertsw wrote: | Using the Original London Cast would be brilliant, except they are all much too old now.
If they had made a film 20 years ago, perfect... but not now.
I wouldn't like them to use the current London cast.
I don't actually think they are *that* good. No-one in the cast really stood out to me.
I think a mixture of the different casts over the last 5 years, or maybe bring some "unknowns" into it, or "knowns" who haven't been in Les Mis. (By "knowns" I mean known people in theatre, not celebrities.) |
Good point. I like the current London cast, but I really disliked the voice of Javert! I don't know if it was just me,but he stood out....... as not very good. I really liked Valjean, Enjolras, Marius (wasn't as good as MB though) And yes, I do like MB.
A Mix of last 5 years would be good. (Lol, although I'd have to put Philip Quast in as Javert even though he's a 20 year old Javert...)
Olly
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DramaticFanatic
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Hi everybody! I am slightly leary of a LM movie, considering what happened to Phantom. But if John Owen-Jones (current London Valjean) was in it, I'm sure it would be out of this world.
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Cami
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On a certain level, I really hope they don't make a les mis movie...and I think the possibilities are slim to none. And slim went home.
They've already made a movie based on the book, I doubt they'd try it.
It would really have to be done right, you know? Plus, with all the hype from the musicals into movies right now, like phantom, rent, producers...I don't know about anyone else, but it just kind of kills it for me. Makes it less special when everyone out there is all "OmGz!1!1!1" over it.
*shrugs*
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javertsw
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I think I would prefer them not making a movie.
I can live without it, and I am more worried about them either killing it, or over commercialising it, or people going crazy over the film and not appreciating the real show.
I suppose it would boost ticket sales, and that might make it last longer in London.
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Emperor of the Fiends
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| Cami wrote: | On a certain level, I really hope they don't make a les mis movie...and I think the possibilities are slim to none. And slim went home.
They've already made a movie based on the book, I doubt they'd try it.
It would really have to be done right, you know? Plus, with all the hype from the musicals into movies right now, like phantom, rent, producers...I don't know about anyone else, but it just kind of kills it for me. Makes it less special when everyone out there is all "OmGz!1!1!1" over it.
*shrugs* |
There are already at least a couple dozen movies based on the book. What's one more?
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dramatic_mizfit
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| Cami wrote: | Makes it less special when everyone out there is all "OmGz!1!1!1" over it.
*shrugs* |
Oh, think of the influx of Eppie-boppers we'd get... 
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RyanJ
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I think it can be done, but I think it has to be made just right...nothing like the stereotypical movies today, maybe a new director on the rise or someone who actually directed the stage version of LM could do it.
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DarthRevan00m9
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Sometimes musical adaptations that make it to screen can go great even though the actors cant sing worth crap. For instance Man of La Mancha has a version that is suprisingly good considering most of the actors have no singing voice worth speaking of. The only way you can make up for that is that you HAVE to have awsome actors if you arent going to get people with A++ singing voices. Also Les Mis is REALLY long and alot of it would be cut so I don't think it would be all that great. Then again it might be awsome. That's just the way films work. They're either really good or really dumb, very few times is it inbetween.
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Orestes Fasting
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| Quote: | | They're either really good or really dumb, very few times is it inbetween. |
Funny, the same could be said of message board denizens, and I've no doubt which group you belong to. Drowning in the shallow end of the gene pool, are we?
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The Very Angry Woman
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| Orestes Fasting wrote: | | Quote: | | They're either really good or really dumb, very few times is it inbetween. |
Funny, the same could be said of message board denizens, and I've no doubt which group you belong to. Drowning in the shallow end of the gene pool, are we? |
And splashing the rest of us, yuck.
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