The overwhelming success of the Les Miserables 25th anniversary concert has given a boost to the possibility of a film adaptation actually happening. Rumours have been flying around for a while now and it seems almost certain that Tom Hooper will direct and Hugh Jackman will star as Jean Valjean. I’m quite excited by this as I love Jackman’s voice and I think he’ll do the part justice. Some of the other names suggested are a little worrying. Anne Hathaway as Fantine, Russell Crowe as Javert, Helena Bonham-Carter as Madame Thernadier and a revolving door of Hollywood bimbos are being suggested for Eponine/Cosette (the parts seem interchangable apparently). I haven’t seen any news of a potential Marius but if it’s Nick Jonas I may have to slap someone with a wet fish.
I understand the need for big name stars to a certain degree, but Les Miserables is so popular that fans will go and see it even if the cast isn’t full of A-listers. There is some great talent in musical theatre – I hope this isn’t overlooked in a bid to keep studio bosses happy.
Do you have a dream cast for a film version? Let me know in the comments.