Despite the presence of 2012’s very successful film adaptation, it seems we’re in dire need of another Les Miserables adaptation. A BBC mini-series is in development, and despite the ubiquity of the source material, they’ve managed to garner some excitement for the series by casting two very talented actors.
David Oyelowo (Selma) has been cast to play Javet, while Dominic West (Tomb Raider) will play Jean Valjean. West commented on his role as Valjean, stating that he’s “one of the greatest characters in world literature” and “his epic journey of redemption is one of the extraordinary roles an actor can take on and I can’t wait to get stuck in to bringing Andrew’s brilliant adaptation to the screen”.
Unlike Tom Hooper‘s 2012 film, screenwriter Andrew Davis (House Of Cards) will be drawing from the original novel rather than the musical, while Tom Shankland (The Punisher) will be directing the series.
Alongside Oyelowo and West, the mini-series will also star Lily Collins, Adeel Akhtar, Olivia Colman, Ellie Bamber, Josh O’Connor and Erin Kellyman. It’s a great cast, a nice mix between actors experienced on the big screen and others who’ve been more suited to TV.
Since most people seem more acquainted with the musical, it will be refreshing to see an adaptation take influence from the novel instead. Production on the series is expected to begin in February, and currently has no set premiere date.
#Peace.Love.LesMiserables
