Filming has officially begun on Jean Valjean, a fresh cinematic take on Victor Hugo’s classic Les Misérables, directed by Éric Besnard. The production started on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in the picturesque Luberon region of southern France, setting the stage for a 34-day shoot.
Jean Valjean focuses on the early life of its titular character, portraying his transformation from a hardened convict to a man of compassion. The story zeroes in on a pivotal moment in the novel when Jean Valjean, fresh out of prison, encounters Monseigneur Bienvenu in the peaceful village of Digne. This encounter marks the beginning of Jean Valjean’s redemption arc, setting him on a path to humanizing compassion despite his past.
Gadebois has joined the cast
Grégory Gadebois stars as Jean Valjean, a role that has been portrayed by some of cinema’s iconic actors. Gadebois, a César Award-winning actor known for his performances in Angel & Tony and An Ordinary Case, brings depth and nuance to this complex role. His previous collaborations with director Besnard, including Délicieux and Miss Violet, set the stage for a powerful portrayal of the character’s emotional journey.
Joining Gadebois is an ensemble cast that includes Bernard Campan as Monseigneur Bienvenu. Campan, known for his roles in Beautiful Memories and Beautiful Minds, brings a sense of humanity and wisdom to the pivotal role. Isabelle Carré, who has been nominated multiple times for the César Award, and Alexandra Lamy, known for The Book of Wonders and Miss Violet, also join the cast, contributing to the film’s rich emotional landscape.
Behind the Scenes: A Visionary Director and Team
Jean Valjean is directed by Éric Besnard, a filmmaker celebrated for his work in films such as Délicieux and Miss Violet. Besnard’s storytelling approach is known for its delicate balance of historical depth and emotional intimacy, making him the perfect choice to bring the nuances of this beloved story to life.
The film is produced by Clément Miserez and Matthieu Warter of Radar Films, with co-production support from France 3 Cinéma. Cinematography for the film is being handled by Laurent Dailland.
A New Perspective on a Classic Tale
This adaptation of Les Misérables offers a fresh take on the iconic tale of redemption and compassion. By focusing on Jean Valjean’s journey from bitterness to benevolence, the film promises to bring a new level of depth to a character beloved by audiences for generations.
