Fred Cavayé is back with a new cinematic adaptation of Les Misérables, the classic novel by Victor Hugo. This time, the film stars Vincent Lindon, Tahar Rahim, and Camille Cottin. The French historical drama, produced by ESKWAD and Curiosa Films and distributed by STUDIOCANAL, will hit theaters exclusively on December 9, 2026. Filming kicked off in summer 2025, with scenes shot in Bordeaux, aiming to deliver a broad and immersive new perspective on this literary masterpiece.
The story follows the journey of Jean Valjean, a former convict sentenced for stealing bread, as he tries to rebuild his life after years behind bars. Under a new identity, he transforms into a respected member of society and dedicates himself to doing good, striving to find moral purpose in a life shaped by injustice and social rejection.
His journey intersects with that of Fantine, a destitute and dying worker to whom he vows to rescue her daughter, the young Cosette, exploited by the Thénardiers. As he raises the girl as his own, Valjean remains relentlessly pursued by the unyielding inspector Javert, a symbol of an unforgiving justice that allows for neither redemption nor compromise.
Amidst a backdrop of social and political unrest, the lives of Valjean, Cosette, Marius, and Javert become intertwined in a revolutionary Paris. The story delves into themes of justice, sacrifice, and legacy, set against the backdrop of a sweeping human saga shaped by the upheavals of history.
The official trailer will be released as soon as it becomes available from the distributor.
With this adaptation, Fred Cavayé continues a long-standing tradition of translating Victor Hugo’s novel onto the screen, while honing in on the inner struggles of his characters. Following Adieu Monsieur Haffmann, the director persists in exploring characters faced with profound moral dilemmas within a carefully crafted historical setting.
The film features an ensemble cast, with Vincent Lindon portraying Jean Valjean and Tahar Rahim as Javert. They are joined by Camille Cottin, Benjamin Lavernhe, Noémie Merlant, Vassili Schneider, Megan Northam, and Marie Colomb. The production design is brought to life through costumes by Pierre-Jean Larroque, set designs by Pierre Quéfféléan, and cinematography by Denis Rouden.
Co-produced by STUDIOCANAL, TF1 Films Production, CANAL+, and Netflix, the film boasts an ambitious production effort that matches the scale of the original story. The first official image from the movie was unveiled by the distributor (photo credits: Christophe Brachet – Curiosa Films / ESKWAD / STUDIOCANAL).
With its serious and humanist tone, Les Misérables appeals to viewers who enjoy sweeping historical and literary dramas, in the vein of Germinal or The Count of Monte Cristo. The film questions the concept of justice and the potential for redemption within a society marked by profound inequality.
Les Misérables
Film | 2026
Scheduled for release in theaters: December 9, 2026
Historical Drama | Duration: TBA
Directed by Fred Cavayé | Starring Vincent Lindon, Tahar Rahim, Camille Cottin
Country: France
This new adaptation offers a modern cinematic take on Victor Hugo's masterpiece, featuring a talented cast and a direction that balances sweeping historical grandeur with the personal intimacy of individual journeys.
To extend your theater experience, check out the December movie releases, the current must-see films, and our handpicked selection of historical films from the year.
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