Customer Reviews

Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert

5 star:		(228)
4 star:		(38)
3 star:		(12)
2 star:		(6)
1 star:		(9)

 

 

Words fail me when I try to describe this video. Les Miz is a glorious play, what with the genius of Boublil & Schonberg. I didn't think I would much enjoy this video because of its lack of actual set & acting and also the few short pieces cut. But it still blew me away. Best of all was the cast. It truly was the definitive edition.

Colm Wilkinson is just the perfect Valjean. His voice has such emotion & resonance to it. And he has such a strong presence as an actor.

Philip Quast was another excellent performer. I've once heard his voice described as "flinty" and I think that that's a good word for it. He really portrays Javert with such coldness, he makes the character quite vivid.

Ruthie Henshall's Fantine is one of those rare performances in musical theatre which simply cannot be surpassed. Henshall's voice is so stirring, heartbreaking, reverberating, deep, chilling, and beautiful. Her "I Dreamed a Dream" is excellent!

Michael Ball's Marius needs to introduction. He's THE Marius, what else is there to say? His voice so, so powerful and he sings with such heart. His "Empty Chairs At Empty Tables" is truly captivating.

Michael Maguire's Enjolras is often criticised. Yes, this wasn't the best performance he probably could have given and he did miss a few notes. But he still has a great voice. People argue that Anthony Warlow is a better Enjolras. While I agree that Warlow has the vocal edge, there's something in Maguire's performance that makes him so much like Enjolras and just so perfect for the part.

Judy Kuhn's Cosette was the one performance which I can say is good but not great. She didn't strike me the first time I heard her, though she has grown on me. She does have a lovely voice, but I just don't go for the whole "ringing soprano" thing. In fact, almost all Cosettes & Christines and the like in general just annoy me. I think Kuhn sounded better as Pocahontas.

Hannah Chick's little Cosette was SO adorable! She didn't miss a note during "Castle On A Cloud" which she just sang so sweetly. At the same time, she didn't seem to overact the sweetness, which I've seen all too many Cosettes do. And the way she kept singing after the stage light explosion was very professional.

And Adam Searles, gotta Love him. Similar to Maguire, I have heard Gavroches with better voices that Searles but he just has the part of Gavroche down so well. He just has the perfect street-wise, smart-aleck attitude perfectly.

I was shocked as to how many people disliked Lea Salonga's Eponine. Even more shocking was how people insisted that Frances Ruffelle was much better. I think Salonga was THE most phenomenal singer of the night. To me, Ruffelle sounds terrible! Many have called Salonga too "bitter" or "angry" but Eponine is a bitter, angry character! Salonga sings with such force, and at other times (e.g. "A Little Fall of Rain") with such sad sweetness. Her "On My Own" was so excellent that watching it is an intense experience. I could barely tear my eyes from the screen the first time I saw her sing it. I think there is no question that she's THE definitive Eponine. 'Course that's just my opinion.

All in all, this was the greatest performance of Les Miz I have ever seen!

This is truly a dream cast! Colm Wilkinson (Valjean), Philip Quast (Javert), Michael Ball (Marius), and Lea Salonga (Eponine) especially make this anniversary concert a must-have for any Les Mis fan.

Be warned though -- this video is NOT a replacement for seeing the musical live! It's an abridged version with several edits and less props and acting. If you've never seen the musical before... wait before you buy this, or you'll probably be either confused or disappointed. If you have seen this musical and love it, DEFINITELY get this video! It may not be a replacement for the musical live, but it's a nice little memory of it. Turn the video on and sing along to it while you're at home :)

I've seen Les Mis in London's West End.. the cast there was great, but this video has the definitive "dream team"!

Colm Wilkinson's Valjean is powerful and passionate, but gentle all at once. He has a spectacular voice, especially in "Who am I?" His is a great counterpoint to Philip Quast's interpretation of Javert... whose strong, forceful singing is breathtaking! Quast's rendition is amazing... his strong booming voice is also somehow tragic and haunting.

Michael Ball and Lea Salonga are (in my opinion) the reason why you should get this tape! Wow.. Michael Ball is THE Marius... listening to his beautiful, elegant voice could bring anyone to their knees! With Michael Ball as Marius, it's no wonder Marius gets all the girls in this video. His duet with Lea Salonga in "A Little Fall of Rain" is exquisite: perfectly in harmony, perfectly acted! Lea Salonga was beautiful as Eponine. Yes, she was "bitter"... but Eponine is a bitter character! Her "On My Own" is passionate and bitter, yet sad and resigned... Salonga is truly one of the greatest!

Ruthie Henshall as Fantine was great in "I Dreamed A Dream"... what I thought was the most tragic song of the entire musical. Judy Kuhn as Cosette was good too, but a little nasal-y in "In My Life". Little Cosette didn't miss a note and Gavroche was pretty adorable too. The Thenardiers (Jenny Galloway and Alun Armstrong) were hilarious and provided the necessary "comic relief" in this otherwise tragic tale. They were great fun to watch....

All in all, a great, grrreat video!

This performance of Les Miserables is simply fantastic. The words are heartbreaking. I probably would have rated this 4.8 stars, but the pull-down wouldn't let me.

Javert is portrayed by Philip Quast, and just to see him act as Javert is worth the price of the movie.

Lea Salonga performs Eponine with a beautiful performance of "on my own" and "a little fall of rain".

Michael Ball is the perfect Marius, and his "Empty chairs" brings tears to my eyes.

Ruthie Henshall plays as Fantine, who has many moods, portrayed splendidly.

Adam Searles is Gavroche, the sly street urchin. I wonder why the "little people" song was cut so short... he was underused in the musical, but oh well...

Colm Wilkinson was perfect in every way as the convict from the chain gang, Valjean, who turns to good as the mayor, "Monsieur Madeleine". Javert, though, finds out and sends Valjean out of the city.

The thenardiers are hilarious, especially in "master of the house." they are great comic relief for this dark movie.

The only one i have critisizm for is Judy Kuhn playing Cossette. Her voice is not necessarily that pretty when she sings in this version. I've heard her sing in lower keys before,and she was much better-sounding in those movies, take Disney's Pocahontas, for example.

This movie is rated PG-13 for language, a TINY bit of crude humor, and strong sexual content. I would recommend this for ages 10 and up.

I hope you find this review useful!

I absolutely loved Les Miserables in Concert. Even though the actors weren't actually acting out the scenes, the singing was still incredible.

I don't think they could have picked a better array of talent to be on that stage than they did. The irriplaceable Colm Wilkinson returned as Jean Valjean--the character he created in the London and Broadway premieres. Ruthie Henshall was a wonderful Fantine and in my opinion, 'I Dreamed a Dream' was one of the best songs in the show. Lea Solanga sang beautifully as usual, playing the love sick and ignored Eponine. Michael Ball. Wow. What more can I say about him? He was, as always, incredible. I wish I could have seen him in the original London production of Les Mis! I am glad that I at least own the original London cast CD of Les Mis so that I can hear how he sounded then compared to now.

The children, Hannah Chick (young Cosette) and Adam Searles (Gavroche) were terrific. There was one point in Young Cosette's song, Castle on a Cloud, when you could hear a loud bang, but being the professional that she is, she kept going, even though you could tell that she definitely heard it.

Judy Kuhn (Cosette) did a wonderful job as well, but there were times when it sounded as if she was a little sharp. I think that this role makes her strain her voice a little. I know she was in the original Broadway production, but over the years, one's voice changes and I think you can tell that has happened with her. Other than that, she did a wonderful job with most of the songs.

Michael Maguire was terrfic as Enjorlas. He is such an incredible singer (not to mention very tall--I think he's taller than the rest of the cast!) and that was proven in 'Do You Hear the People Sing?' and 'Red and Black'.

Philip Quast is truly wonderful as Javert, the policeman after Valjean. His singing cannot be matched, especially in the song where he plummets to his death.

Alun Armstrong was simply hilarious. He does a wonderful job of making a complete fool out of Thenardier (which the character is). Jenny Galloway is also very funny as Madame Thendardier. Their duet, 'Beggar at the Feast' was so funny that I had tears in my eyes! They are rather convincing (even though it's only a concert, one can only imagine what it is like on an actual stage).

So, if you loved the London and Broadway productions or just love Les Miserables, go and buy this version. It may not be an actual performance, but it is well worth the purchase just to see such wonderful talent on stage.

First things first, let me make something abundantly clear: This is NOT a video of the musical! It is instead a video of people standing in front of microphones singing the (almost entire) soundtrack to the musical. If you're looking for incredible scenery, you'd probably have better luck seeing the show. Now that that's taken care of, this video is one of the most incredible things that I have ever seen. Instead of taking the cast members of a single city or tour, this is a 'best of the best' selection, so every part is simply incredible. Especially of note are Phillip Quast as Javert and Eponine (forgive me, I can't remember who sang her part). I found it well worth the expense

This last verse - the ultimate wisdom at the end of a life - conveys the essence of this magnificent creation. Goosebumps, tears, enthusiasm, Les Mis's Tenth Anniversary Concert is, without doubt, one of the most powerful artistic experiences of my life (to capture the full emotion, DO get the Video - VHS/DVD)

I have seen both the London and Broadway versions, read the book, but even without the scenery, or the detailed plot, TAC is the keeper for me. It is perfect. You will rarely find a more powerful rendition of the human condition, sad yet hopeful, with various windows into the human soul. An emotional rollercoaster on Victor Hugo's creation, powered by the ultimate "Dream Cast" and a breathtaking chorus, will take you through youth's idealism ("Do You Hear The People Sing", "Red and Black"), love's broken hopes ("I Dreamed a Dream"), unrequited love ("On My Own"), childhood innocence ("Castle on a Cloud"), camaraderie ("Drink With Me", "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables") - and much more.

As for the voices - this IS indeed the Dream Cast. Standouts: Philip Quast as Javert (foremost, his powerful, confident baritone makes a breathtaking "Stars"), Michael Ball as Marius ("Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" - heart-wrenching), Lea Salonga as Eponine (excellent every time, especially in "On My Own", also the perfectly sung/acted "A Little Fall of Rain" with Marius) and Ruthie Henshall as Fantine (the superb "I Dreamed a Dream").

Everyone else is just "very good". Home-crowd favorite Colm Wilkinson (as Valjean) has exceptional periods but also some weak moments. The only performance I did not quite appreciate was Judy Kuhn's Cosette, but perhaps it's a minus of the musical arrangement - her "soprano" just does not seem to blend in.

Is the video appropriate for children? This is a fair concern in two places - the Red Light District scene ("Lovely Ladies") and Ms Thernadier's comeback to her husband's bragging ("Master of the House"). However, chances are kids will not "get" the objectionable parts - cockney accents and English tongue-in-cheek humor (note how Gallaway as Ms Thernadier follows up on "he thinks he's quite a lover, but...") make them less accessible to younger minds. Then again, I've learned not to underestimate these young minds - see those parts first and decide whether to FF over the objectionable parts.

My 9-year old daughter loves the TAC Video - so much so that she has asked for the TAC Audio CDs, the unabridged version of Hugo's novel to read - a huge leap for her age - and she wanted to see the Broadway musical. Although she very much enjoyed the added-value of scenery, and a more complete story line, she still prefers the TAC performance. For us, TAC Video has been stimulating and enriching - buy it, as I am sure that you and your family will also enjoy it.

Regarding the Audio CD - there are 5 versions to choose from, most notably the London Cast, the Broadway Cast and TAC. ...it seems pointless to argue the value of one version over another. This musical makes such a deep imprint in your heart, that it is hard to accept a different interpretation than the one you've fallen in love with. My own experience is that TAC is head and shoulders above the rest - the sound is good, and no better sound can outweigh the joy of seeing/hearing the best-possible Javert, Marius and Eponine, the Royal Philarmonic Orchestra and a fantastic chorus.

I had never seen a live stage production of Les Miserables. I saw this concert for the first time on PBS and fell in love with Les Miserables. I wanted to read and hear everything that was Les Miserables (Broadway and London cast albums, Symphonic album, The Making of Les Miserables book, etc.). After hearing all of the albums, I definitely feel that, as the video cover says, this is the dream cast. Colm Wilkinson is the most passionate Jean Valjean. Philip Quast expresses Javert's beliefs in song and action very clearly. Michael Maguire ,as Enjolras, is the ultimate student leader. No one can be Marius better than Michael Ball. Just listen to him sing "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables." Lea Salonga as Eponine singing "On My Own" brings tears to your eyes as she sings about her unrequited love for Marius. Ruthie Henshall captured Fantine's longing to support and raise her daughter Cosette. I could go on and on about this production but I don't want to give away everything about the Les Miserable story. BUY THE VIDEO NOW AND SEE FOR YOURSELF! I own a copy and I believe you will come to love Les Miserable as I do.

Being a broadway buff and performer, I seem to critique performances - concert and actual stage -with very high standards.

This version in concert was by far the best I've ever seen it performed. Although I was not at the concert, I have seen it performed in London, New York, and Los Angeles, and after buying and watching the video I would have traded all the times I've seen it on stage, to see that one performance at the Royal Albert Hall.

It was literally the DREAM CAST, Les Mis has ever seen. Colm Wilkinson's performance of Jean Valjean was stirring with the perfect mix of masculine verboseness and soulful rendition.

I don't believe there is a better Javert than Philip Quast. He has an amazing stage presence in the character that instills fear and at his "defeat" instills compassion.

Many don't comment on the performances of the Thenardier and Mme Thenardier. Alun Armstrong and Jenny Galloway respectively, are essential in these roles. They are so convincing in their portrayals it's sometimes difficult to see that without the dirty make-up and ragged clothes they are just like you and me.

Some colleagues have claimed that Lea Salonga's voice is a little nasal, but I have to differ on that thought. Her portrayal of Eponine is beautiful in it's sincerity and her performance with Michael Ball in "A Little Fall of Rain" always chokes me up a bit. I was very pleased to see her in this concert.

Michael Ball is my favorite Marius! If Michael Ball is Marius I do not blame Eponine and Cosette for falling deeply in love with him. His voice is bewitchingly true and rich. Each solo deserves undivided attention.

I loved the concert so much I immediately bought the CD set. I recommend this for all you other broadway buffs out there, or those who have never seen a musical prior. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Les Miserables is without a doubt the best musical-drama of which I'm currently aware. It may well be the best musical ever. I've had opportunity to see this wonderful work several times in Toronto and Colorado Springs and it never fails to move me - even as does the Victor Hugo novel.

The Concert Presentation is as it purports to be: a masterful performance in the Royal Albert Hall by some of the most highly regarded principals extant, supported by a wonderful orchestra and a chorus of substantial dimensions. Some criticize that all of this is so self-congratulatory that it therefore somehow diminishes the dignity of the effort but I don't agree. It is a celebration well considered and suited to the concert stage. I am most pleased with it.

Shortly after viewing the DVD, I went to Amazon.fr to see if there was such a similar offering there. Though I have Claude-Michel Schonberg's concept recording, I could find no video of the French version of the musical. Considering the original source material of the novel and the subsequent concept score, I find this a great disappointment, but I remain hopeful.

Some flaws did creep into the performance, as may well be expected in a `live' recording:
*There are some problems with orchestral balance and intonation.
*Things are heard banging about offstage.
*The microphone stands need adjusting at inopportune times.
*There is the inevitable dust haze in the long shots.
But these are minimal for such a huge production.

An interesting Coda is the reiteration of "Do You Hear the People Sing?," whereby some 17 of the world's Valjeans are featured. I was both stunned and pleased to find the Japanese Valjean, Takeshi Kaga, included. I've known him previously only as Chairman of Kitchen Stadium in the cable TV import "Iron Chef."

It's likely to be a lengthy season before any Film rendition of the work is produced. Until such is a fait accompli, we've this staged concert and various excellent CDs to sustain our interest, as well as the stage production itself - though it may be reaching the end of its current run.

Certainly I love this concert version and recommend it very highly. Five Stars worth.

Russell de Ville
17 April 2006

This is absolutely amazing! I was a bit iffy about the lack of acting and set however all doubts went away within the first five minutes. Let's go through the characters and heap praise and a tiny bit of criticizm:

Colm Wilkinson (Jean Valjean): This preformance was magnificent! Colm Wilkinson does so well with the part of JVJ. "Bring Him Home" was breathtaking! He could've done with not sliding up to the high notes but then again those notes are extremely difficult. Great job!

Philip Quast (Javert): One word describes it all: Perfect. His voice, unlike Terrence Mann, whom some people claim to be the best, is clear and resonant. You can hear every syllable he utters with absoloute clarity. His rendidtion of "Stars" was beautiful and the look on his face at the end of the song encompasses all that Javert is. There is no other Javert but Philip Quast.

Ruthie Henshall (Fantine): I loved this! She is great! Frances Ruffele is shamed by Ruthie. She is a beautiful girl and has a very pretty voice.

Jenny Galloway (Mme. Thenardier): Hahaha! I was splitting my sides laughing! She is perfect, the way her voice sounds good and yet vile all in one soundwave. She could've sung a little lounder with the "I used to dream I would meet a prince..." and "there's not much there." but otherwise, good job.

Alun Armstrong (Thenardier): He is great! The only Thenardier that I've seen who could rival him is Nick Wyman. There's not much to be said but just watch and you'll see how perfect he is.

Lea Salonga (Eponine): Beautiful! Stunning! She is the one and only Eponine. All Cosette-lovers will be turning to Eponine's side after this performance. "On My Own" was fabulous!

Michael Ball (Marius): One again, great! No wonder this is the Dream Cast! "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" was perfect: it fully portrayed Marius's grief at the time! If only they took this cast and taped the actual stage production with them.

Michael Maguire (Enjolras): Okay, maybe he was a little nasal with his voice and missed a few notes here and there, but how can this guy play this part badly? He LOOKS like Enjolras, he has the ATTITUDE of Enjolras, the DETERMINATION of Enjoras, and in a former life this guy probably WAS Enjolras!

Judy Kuhn (Cosette): She has a lovely voice, but I wasn't a fan of the whole "La Carlotta" aura about it. Cosette is a difficult character to like and to sing the part of well, and Judy did her best. Ah well.

Anthony Crivello (Grantaire): Come on. All he needed was a whiskey bottle and he would've been perfect.