'Valjean': A 'Les Misérables' Prequel Film by Éric Besnard Starring Gregory Gadebois

Éric Besnard, known for “Delicieux,” is directing a film about Jean Valjean from “Les Misérables.” Filming began January 14 in Southern France, with Ginger & Fed, led by Sabine Chemaly, involved. The film is presented to buyers at the Unifrance Rendez-Vous in Paris.

“Valjean” reunites Besnard with Gregory Gadebois, alongside Bernard Campan, Isabelle Carré, and Alexandra Lamy. Produced by Clément Miserez and Matthieu Warter at Radar Films, it will be distributed by Warner Bros. France and co-produced by France 3 Cinéma, supported by Ciné+, OCS, HBO Max, Entourage, and Cinécap.

Chemaly told Variety that the film intricately portrays Valjean’s profound transformation from a hardened criminal to a revered hero, a metamorphosis catalyzed by a pivotal encounter with a benevolent bishop. This moment serves as a crucial turning point in Valjean’s life, highlighting the film's exploration of redemption, a recurring theme that resonates deeply throughout Besnard’s body of work. Valjean’s journey is marked by an initial state of bitterness and despair, a sentiment that is all too common among those who have endured the harsh realities of prison life. Upon his release, he grapples with the societal stigma attached to his past and the overwhelming sense of hopelessness that often accompanies such a profound experience. However, everything changes when he crosses paths with a kind and compassionate bishop, whose selfless act of forgiveness and generosity ignites a spark of hope within Valjean. This encounter not only alters the trajectory of Valjean’s life but also serves as a powerful commentary on the potential for personal transformation.

The bishop’s unwavering belief in the goodness of humanity inspires Valjean to reflect on his own choices and the possibility of redemption. As he embarks on this new path, the film delves into the complexities of his character, illustrating the internal struggles he faces while striving to become a better man in a world that often seems unforgiving. Through Valjean’s evolving identity, the narrative emphasizes the importance of compassion, the impact of mentorship, and the profound influence that one individual can have on another's life. Ultimately, the film encapsulates the essence of redemption, suggesting that even those who have strayed far from the moral path can find their way back through acts of kindness and a commitment to change. Valjean’s transformation is not merely a personal victory; it serves as a beacon of hope for others, reinforcing the idea that it is never too late to seek forgiveness and strive for a more virtuous existence. The film features a 7 million euro budget with extensive exterior sets. Radar Films has a successful track record with films like “Belle et Sebastien” and “On the Wandering Paths.”