I had to laugh when you were talking about the 25th Anniversary concert and suggested subbing in Michael Ball for Nick Jonas. Someone in China actually did that. Almost every time Marius sings they deleted Nick and popped in Michael from the 10th Anniversary concert. It's brilliant! The show is so much better, and it's really fun to see a young Michael sing Marius alongside Alfie's Valjean. (I'd post the link but I lost it. I believe the site was called Bilibili, but I could be wrong. It was a while ago,)
Right its bilibili, they called NickJonas "Little God Horse" which means "what is he doing" or "how bad his voice". While I think Nick is not a bad singer, but not suitble for musical
Nick Jonas is fine, you know? Like, he's a solid singer. But you put him next to Alfie Boe, and suddenly it looks like a guy with water wings swimming next to Michael Phelps. He was just so outclassed, it honestly wasn't fair.
I was at the 10th Anniversary Concert at the Royal Albert Hall in 1995. At the end of Castle In A Cloud it wasn’t a cannon that went off but one of the overhead balloons that were eventually released at the end of the show.
@@CoynieReads Your welcome Coynie! It was a great show. I got to go for free as at the time I was working at The Palace Theatre where Les Mis originally was.
Try the original Broadway cast from 1987. Terrance Mann as Javert is great. Quast is my favorite though. Randy Graff as Fantine and Frances Rufelle reprises her London role. Also Colm Wilkinson as Valjean. Give it a listen.
10th anniversary that’s the dream cast , Lea Salonga as Eponine and Michael ball as Marius , no one can beat their a little fall of rain performance and of course, Lea’s On my own was impeccable and divine !
This isn't a complete comparison without the Original Broadway Cast version - the best in my opinion. Colm Wilkinson (basically Sean Connery singing as Valjean), Terrence Mann (perhaps not the best "voice" but has the right sound for a young and dangerous Javert), Michael Maguire (the best looking and most powerfully voiced Enjolras), Frances Ruffelle (the best Eponine because she has a voice that really sounds likes she's crying which really transmits the sadness and misery of her character), and Judy Kuhn (who just had an incredible voice - she was literally the singing voice of a Disney princess). OBC = #1
As someone who fell in love with Les Mis because of the 2012 movie I kind of have a soft spot for it but i can’t deny it’s many flaws altought i was a bit sad when you didn’t mention Aaron Tveit’s outstanding acting. I mean yes of course he’s hot but this man is my favourite Enj from the first time I’ve watched it and he kind of made me fell in love with this character
i confess i didn't like his enjolras when i listened to the album but then i watched the movie and completely fell in love with him! his enjolras is UNMATCHED
i agree completely! in fact he's the one that got me into les mis i only listened to the symphonic recording because of him, he's always been my favourite enjolras
Love Warlow! Discovered him in this recording. Also have Jekyll & Hyde and Secret Garden Highlights with him and Phillip Quast. I had the pleasure of meeting him in Washington D.C. after a performance of Man of La Mancha.
When I am trying to introduce people to Les Mis, I often start with the 1998 Liam Neeson and Geoffrey Rush non-musical version of the musical storyline. This gives them that scope you talked about that you appreciated in the movie version. I then take them to the 10th Anniversary version. As you said, every performance is sooooooo solid. After that they are on their own. It is my humble opinion that no school child in America, public or private should graduate without having been exposed to this story and this music . Thanks for your video and your commitment to the material.
It's my personal belief that you truly know you love something when you start getting spreadsheets involved 😂 I have to confess, the only version I have consumed is the movie version but I loved hearing all your opinions all the same!
I hated the movie version with a passion. This musical calls out for subline singing and it did not get that in the movie. It's just a pity that no one told the producers that there is an enormous difference between a singer who can act and and actor (no matter how famous) who cannot sing and none of these highly paid actors could do justice to these songs.
Yesss Lea Salonga in the 10th and 25th anniversary versions, just stunning. And love that you shouted out Ramin and Hadley (yes, we ship, we ship very hard isjdkflfdsjfds hahaha)
I saw Lea as Fantine in 07. She was absolutely mind blowing. Drew Sarich played opposite and wow, he had a better performance than Karim as Valjean IMO.
What about the original Broadway Cast recording from 1987? It is the first that I ever heard and holds a place in my heart. Terrance Mann as Javert... amazing!
I actually voiced 8 year old Cosette in the 2001 Focus on the Family Radio Theatre adaptation of Les Misérables. It was such an amazing experience. I also was in a few other radio dramas that Philip Glassborow directed for Focus on the Family Radio Theatre. So because of that, I recommend the 2001 radio play of Les misérables. Not just because of myself, but because of the awesome people I got to work with, like Brian Blessed, Eve Karpf and the late Geoffrey Palmer.
Phillip Quest is also my favourite Javert and the 10th anniversary concert is god tier! I cannot get past Nick Jonas in the 25th enough to enjoy it...although I have only watched it once maybe it’s worth revisiting. Really enjoyed this video! What did you think about the BBC mini series that came out a couple of years ago? I know it’s not a musical, but I really enjoyed it as an adaptation.
Yes, I really enjoyed the BBC adaptation, especially since I read it after reading the book. It was great to be able to see those chapters from the book that weren't in the musical brought to life.
Nick Jonas is totally undervalued as Marius. So what he doesn't have an operatic background. He wasnt hammy like Michael Ball. Recordist could have amplified his voice a bit. Its a common practice in recordings. As the 25th Anniv. Version was mostly spoken face forward into stationary microphones, acting was discouraged. Only a couple of the cast broke character. Jonas's Empty Tables was the best I've seen. It was more sung from the heart. One weakness to the 25th Anniv. Version was cutting Gavroche's role. The gal commenting on the versions was arrogant and obsessed. Particularly with Michael Ball. Boe showed absolutely no emotion in his face. Even with regard to his interaction with Cosette. He was cold. I agree that Phillip Quest was faultless. As was Karimloo, so don't compare them with other cast members. How can this commentator go on and on and on almost breathlessly. I wonder who would seek her opinion.
Gary Morris, the Valjean on the International, is a country-western singer with a beautiful voice in my opinion. His Bring Him Home, with the London Symphony, is absolutely a gem. He had a tough task fitting in to the critics. He replaced Colm Wilkinson in NY and was going to play the part his way, his style of singing, and not be anyone else. What more could you ask from a performer. I think he's wonderful, as I do think Colm is. Gary is not my favorite Valjean though; that opinion goes to Jeff Leyton. To me, Jeff Leyton is Valjean. Listen to Jeff Leyton Sing Bring Him Home or Soliloquy
How strange...I definitely don't hear Gary Morris doing anything close to a French accent in the International Recording....that said, it was my first recording, and most listened to....and I'm American....so maybe I'm biased.
I prefer the 10th anniversary over the 25th, but the 25th is noteworthy because it’s more complete than the 10th concert, the 10th suffers from the standing-in-front-of-mics staging (and that shadow in front of Lea’s face is criminal), and there’s more interesting camera work in the 25th. But choosing between them I still choose 10th!
This is an EXCELLENT VIDEO. And I totally understand why you put the 25th anniversary first, I haven’t listened to that version or watched it because it’s not anywhere (sad) so I didn’t realise the cast was so strong! The 10th anniversary is my fave because it’s the one I always go to when I’m listening to Les Mis. Philip Quast is also my favourite Javert, and Judy Kuhn is my favourite Cosette so I love that album, although I haven’t seen the actual concert all the way through so I can’t speak for the acting. I saw the Gielgud concert version with John Owen-Jones and he is definitely one of my favourite Valjeans, he got a standing ovation after Bring Him Home that must have lasted a couple of minutes! He’s just incredible. I actually liked Michael Ball as Javert too, I haven’t listened to the album but in the live performance I thought he was brilliant. Most of my favourite cast members come from the first time I saw the show in London in 2014, as it was just the perfect cast and obviously nostalgia - Rob Houchen, Carrie Hope Fletcher as Eponine (didn’t love her as Fantine tho?), and Peter Lockyer as Valjean. Weirdly the film actually made me fall in love with the show, I hadn’t listened to it fully before that so it also holds a place in my heart, even though I also hate Russell Crowe as Javert... And having a crush on every single actor who plays Enjolras is the universal Les Mis fan experience!! Is it weird that I desperately want to see your spreadsheet?? 😂 I’m in the mood to go through my favourite performances and properly analyse them like the theatre nerd I am. I just love it when people love things!!! This video made me very happy
Yes!!! I loved hearing his breakdown. Yeah, I really liked Carrie as Fantine but I do generally prefer her Eponine. I think she was a brilliant Eponine. I know you can still buy the 25th online and it's often played on the Sky Arts channel but since the Gielgud DVD came out it's been a bit buried by that, which is a shame! 😩
I think you’ll enjoy the Original Broadway Cast Recording, especially if you liked the 10th anniversary. In my opinion the OBC Recording IS the dream team.
I am a little late to the party but... I have to share my history with Les Mis. So, I've been doing musical theater for a long time. I have been in a teen production, as well as a main stage production. it's a very close show to my heart. When Lea Salonga was Fantine in the first Broadway revival, my best friend and I not only got to see the show, but we got to go backstage and see the props and the wigs, because my aunt's friend at the time, was a part of the crew. As for when the movie came out.... when Russal crow jumped off the bridge people actually cheered because his singing was sooooooooooooooooo painfully bad. lol I hope one day i can be in les mis again. It's such a good show that I never get tired of.
You completely left out the 1987 original Broadway cast recording!! One of the most well known recordings of this show. It won a grammy for best show album. It contains some definitive performances such as Randy Graff as Fantine, Michael Maguire as Enjolras, Frances Ruffelle as Eponine, and Judy Kuhn as Cosette!!
Little people being cut always feel odd because it's the english version of La Faute à Voltaire, aka the ONLY SONG THAT'S ACTUALLY IN THE BOOK! It has the lyrics Victor Hugo wrote as the chorus, it's perhaps the most popular song of the whole french concept album that birthed this musical... and they cut it! I'll never understand that.
It’s so interesting to hear you talk about the OG London cast, that’s the one I grew up with and felt it had no faults (minus cutting Grantaire out of drink with me). I’m trying to get my friend into Les Mis and that’s how I stumbled upon this video. Guess I gotta rethink some things haha
As someone who generally doesn't like musicals but is a big fan of historical dramas, the realism of the film is what sold it for me. If it was just a straight adaptation of the musical like every other musical film adaptation ever made then the story probably wouldn't have hooked me in the way that it did, and the fact that the story hooked me is what made me start to enjoy the music in its own right and appreciate how much it elevates the story.
@@maxphilpott9677 Again this is my opinion, and your argument is clearly an exaggeration. And singing also is subjective and depends on your taste. If you don't like it, that doesn't make it factually ''bad'', that's just your opinion.
@@animationmusicals But what about things like Javert's ACCURATE voice? What does that mean? Also the costumes? They changed Javert from an inspector and gave him that awful prison outfit.
@@fellinuxvi3541 Accurate meaning that his boldness in singing fits Javert's personality. Having a Javert with a weak singing voice instead of a bold one does not fit.
Phenomenal reviews! I had to laugh when you said, "because I have no life." Well, I'm sure you do, but it's awesome hearing someone else's take on various versions of a show I also hold so dear to my heart! I LOVE you enthusiasm for this! The first version I saw/heard was in '92 on Broadway, and for me, nothing will ever stand up to that version on stage (I saw the show at least 20 times until I moved out of NYC in '97.) I knew all of the lines by heart except for a few that were/are found in "Do You Hear the People Sing." It drove me nuts not knowing - so much that I bought the Complete Symphonic Edition (my favorite as it is the FULL show from beginning to end (although I sooo wish Colm W. was playing Valjean). I bought the album just to get the included booklet with all of the lyrics so that I could finally learn the lines I was missing - "The blood of the waters will meadow the martyrs of France." I agree that the 10th anniversary concert was the best by far in terms of the cast, but sooo wish it didn't cut anything and was more acted out as seen in the 25th anniversary edition... As for the movie version? Ugh! (Although, like yourself, seeing Colm cast as the bishop was beyond amazing....)
So what other theatre shows musicals/plays have you seen? I was going to follow your CarolineAnnMartinPhotography page but it doesn't work for some reason?? I'm from the UK in England-have you seen any theatre here live on stage??
Big Les Mis fan. I own many of those recordings. Great analysis! I have to say, one performance that stands out to me is Samantha Barks’ On My Own from the 25th. The build-up to “…that I have never known!” …and the echo of her last word there throughout the arena. Then “I love him…”
Les Mis is my favorite musical, and I listen to all of the albums religiously. Why didn’t you also consider the original Broadway cast? That was the first one I listened to. I’m also five minutes into the video, so if I jumped the gun, that’s why. As I said, I’m not even a quarter of the way through, here are my opinions: Russell Crowe was good enough at acting for Javert, but his voice doesn’t fit well. Alfie Boe is amazing at singing, but I don’t think his voice fits Valjean. To me he sounds a bit more like an opera singer. I don’t know if he was ever in Phantom, but I would LOVE that. Ramin Karimloo… goodness where do I start? He’s just a powerhouse, and everything he does is amazing. Whichever album had Ramin, Hadley, and Nick Jonas, that’s not on Apple Music, which is what I use. And I didn’t realize that until I was 2/3 of the way through act one, and I didn’t hear either of them. It was the other 2010 album. Edit: Got it! The Original London’s opening does sound much less like Les Mis, but I still enjoy it so much? I also think Norm Lewis is so close to perfect for Javert. Phillip Quast is perfect. Garry Morris just doesn’t sound like he can belt in the Complete Symphonic Recording
the best thing about having multiple recordings is that you'll have multiple versions of your favourite songs and i absolutely love that. a few favourites are: empty chairs, red & black/abc café, do you hear the people sing, a heart full of love, stars, master of the house and confrontation
I love productions that lean heavily into the Grantaire/Enjolras relationship. In the book, Victor Hugo is not subtle in laying out the fact the Grantaire is head-over-heels in love with Enjolras, while Enjolras is clearly described as what we would today call aro-ace. Seeing this dynamic play out on stage gives so much more pathos to the characters and really heightens the tragedy.
What about the non musical versions of les miserables. Liam Nelson played valjean and Geoffrey Rush played Javert in 98. And the older movies. Maybe check which version is the most faithful to the book.
My favorite version of the movie is the one from 1958. It seems to be the most faithful one I've seen. It's about 3 and a half hours. (Still not enough time to tell everything from the novel)
opinion on dog eats dog? doesn't seem to be in your playlist at all... in my opinion it's one of the most underrated and important character songs in the musical and is so daring to have a song so cynical and dark so late in the show. love this otherwise! such dedication!
Oh, it must have been deleted off of TH-cam since I made the playlist, but my favourite is Alun Armstrong in the 10th anniversary. And I agree, I couldn't believe it was cut in the film!
I'm going to answer this before I even watch the video and say The CSR. I know it doesn't have Lea and Colm but it does have Philip Quest and it's the entire show unedited. I do like them all for so many different reasons. The London Recording has such a different beginning. I love the 10th and 25th. Not a big fan of the movie soundtrack. The French version is fun to listen to just to hear the changes in translation. My answer is still the Complete Symphonic Recording. Lets see if you agree. Now on with the video.
i was watching the 2012 concert and my older brother came in the room during the "Pledge Ourselves" section and he says "God these guys are kicking nick jonas in the ass right now"
The OLC is my favourite recording. I guess it depends on the first you heard and what you refer to. Some of the later recordings sound too overcooked to me. It is indeed strange to do a review take like this without reference to the OBC recording, which as previously mentioned is also excellent
I didn’t like the film at all, who cast Russell Crowe and why? Why?! I think they prioritised acting too much over singing so some of the acting is good but you can’t hear the melody properly and when parts of the music are repeated and the timing is really bad and they had to record the orchestra afterwards and find a way to make it match up, it’s completely wrong for a musical.
This was a fantastic video! I learned so much! I'm a HUGE Les Miz fan and have been ever since I first saw a national tour version of it in 1990. I am a huge fan of the original Les Miz as it was first presented on Broadway in 1987. Thus, I detest all the changes in lyrics and cuts to the show that have been made ever since...even to the point that I recently decided not to go see Les Miz in Los Angeles (where I live) even though it is currently playing at the Pantages Theater. The show today is just not what it used to be. Casts today do not seem to appreciate just how epic this show is supposed to be. I find many of them throwing away their lines and just going through the motions as if it's just a job to them and they just want to get paid. When I saw recent clips from the current Los Angles production, I just had to say, "Sorry...no way!" It's sad! I'm not going to pay $300-$400 to see a cast that isn't going to put their full heart and soul into it. Having said all that, my favorite version is the Complete Symphonic Recording because it's the most complete version of the original show. I love hearing all of the music especially in between scenes. As I said before, I can't stand all the cuts and changes that have been made in the years since. That's mostly why it's hard for me to watch it on stage today. I also miss the turntable! Luckily, there are some great videos of the entire show from the 1990's and the early 2000's on TH-cam. I'll have to make do with those for now. Also, I agree with you 100% that the movie is the absolute worst version of Les Miz ever! It is completely unwatchable in my opinion! They had one shot to make this film , and Tom Hooper completely ruined it, and I doubt if I'll ever forgive him! And you're right...this film should never have been sung live! If I had $100 million dollars, I would remake this movie using only the best Broadway and West End singers who have played the parts before. Who cares about A-List actors if they can't sing!!! I usually love Hugh Jackman, but he did not belong in this film (Really??? Screaming "Bring Him Home" at the top of his lungs??? He sounded more like a braying donkey!!!). And Anne Hathaway may have won her Oscar for a great acting performance, but her singing is awful which is what really matters! She sings the worst version of "I Dreamed A Dream" in history! She did not belong in this movie either! And of course, there's no need to even mention Russell Crowe. Big shout out to Samantha Barks though. She was completely in her element and the biggest ray of sunshine on the screen! Thank you again for making and sharing this fantastic video!!!
I brief comment. I did see the production that is currently in LA earlier in its run when it was at the Kennedy Center in DC. While there have been changes in the production that I am not fond of (i.e., how they handle Javert's death), I cannot fault the cast. They definitely put their heart into it. I like it so much that I recommended to my daughter who lives in LA.
It's definitely a gaping hole in my Les Mis listening! Only reason I've shied away is because I don't speak French myself but probably not a good enough reason!
The 10th anniversary hands down. Its not called dream cast for no reason. Colm Wilkinson, Ruth Henshal, Philip Quast and Lea Salonga just to name a few. This 4 alone vocals is phonomenal. I also thought it had the funniest Thernadier. Plus the orchestra and all Val Jean from around the world. It was just epic.
I have never felt so hard, everything you said I was like "omg yes sis, preach"! I will absolutely check out your ultimate Les Mis playlist because I think it will be very similar to mine haha. Lovely video and very good work at summarizing everything, I'm definitely subscribing!
Nick Jonas was cast because his dad threw around his weight with Cameron Mackintosh to get him the role and basically harassed him into casting Nick. When Cameron was interviewed about how Nick was going he didnt say he was doing great, just that 'yeah, he seems to be really enjoying it'. I guess musical theatre is simply a game for rich young boys to play.
You forgot the original broadway cast from 1987. Colm Wilkinson, Terrance Mann, etc. Not my favorite but faster and better than original London cast and was the standard version until the horrible changes from 2010 onwards. Have a listen!
I know that you restricted it to English language versions but as this is a French history AND was first done in French it is incroyable that you didn't at least listen to the original French concept album. I note that it is able to be listened to on You Tube and can recommend that all those interested in Les Miserables should listen to it.
Kind of a pointless video, if you don't play snippets of the songs you're talking about. Also....Michael Ball is one of the most overrated singers in musical theatre history, imo. You're spot on about Quast and Solonga, though... 😁
the 1988 javert is Richard Kinsey i think. the image is him, anyway. you can see him in the 1991 recordings on youtube. hes great. edit: 1988 recording of les mis is Phillip Quast! image is still richard kinsey though
Thank you, THANK YOU, for creating this video of my Les Mis opinions so I don't have to. 😂 Seriously, we agree on basically everything! The BANG during Castle on a Cloud!! That poor little girl, I wonder if she ever recovered, because I sure haven't. The Karimloo/Fraser bromance is both REAL and EPIC and spans empires/musicals. You didn't mention the recording I have on CD, though, with the original Broadway cast. It's not great, honestly. The Eponine annoys me, and there aren't any real standouts aside from Colm Wilkinson and Michael Maguire. I've rarely listened to it, especially since I've had the concerts on DVD. I haven't listened to as many recordings as you have, but I would say the 10th anniversary concert slightly beats the 25th for me as #1 because I really can't get past Nick Jonas. But you're absolutely right, the rest of the 25th was SO SPECTACULAR. I can't believe they went and randomly name-dropped and ruined it. 😭 Edited to add: I almost forgot to squee about Norm Lewis FALLING at the end of Stars. That thing he does with his voice that makes it sound like he's getting farther away?? It kills me every time!
Colm Wilkinson is the definitive Valjean. Micheal Ball is my favorite Marius. I love the Thernardiers in the 10th Anniversary dream cast. I agree with you as a whole. I didn't enjoy Nick Jonas as Marius. He sang okay, but his acting left something to be desired. I also love Alfie Bowe as Valjean.
The original Broadway cast is the only answer. Their are only two kinds of Le Mis fans. Those who know the Original Broadway cast Exist and those to young to give it a chance
Just ordered 10th Anniversary Edition used from Amazon. Beats forwarding through pledge drive when on PBS. Lately they’ve shown 25th Anniversary cast instead. Doesn’t hold up as well. Not really a fan of the movie. See it live every time it comes to town. Every song is great.
The 25th anniversary trying to fit the homoeroticism of the book Grantaire and Enjolras made me so happy because I remember reading the book at like 10 years old and then asking my dad if they were boyfriends.
Despite it's many flaws, I do like how much easier it is to follow the story in the movie version. The plot is so complicated that it can be hard to follow when watching a stage production. That said... Yeah I absolutely don't listen to the soundtrack
I watched the film first and liked it (due to the amazing Samantha Barks) so watched the 25th anniversary concert… I now have to skip the film to cut out the bad chunks.
To be honest I agree with your opinion but I think the movie should be a bit higher This is just my opinion, I would put it higher because I got into les miserables like 3 years ago and the movie was the one I first got the feeling with les miserables. Also I wouldn’t put it closer to the top because I think they shouldn’t cut most of the songs and I don’t really like how they had to go with taking/singing instead of just singing the best they can.
Hi, sorry to only be replying to this now! In terms of any adaptation, musical or not, so far from what I've seen the recent BBC adaptation with Dominic West and David Oyelowo has been the closest in terms of book accuracy. It's six episodes so just manages to cram in a lot more material than the musical is able to!
My own favorite is the CSR, mostly because it is in fact complete, the cast by and large gives good performances, and the orchestral performance is on point. Kaho Shimada's accent could occasionally be distracting, but given that she didn't speak a word of English and learned the part phonetically, I have to give her credit for the incredible amount of work she must have put in. The '85 London cast recording will always be special since it was the first one I heard. I think you just kinda have to accept and embrace the differences. I've seen it live five times, and I think my favorite was the West End performance I saw in 2005. They had a turntable malfunction during the scene change to the barricade, and had to stop the show for about 20 minutes while they fixed that. Afterwards they rewound to about 10 minutes prior, the turntable worked fine then, and the rest of the performance continued without a hitch. Having worked in musical theater for many, many years, it was kind of refreshing to see that even world-class performances aren't immune to gremlins.
@@CoynieReads I’m Being dramatic just to be clear :) I just don’t understand how you picked the 25th anniversary concert Over the 10th. If John Owen Jones was in the 25th I could perhaps understand your choice. I saw him live and he was awesome but still 2nd imo to colm . Like you said , javert and Val Jean carry the show . So you’re picking norm and Alfi over colm and Philip quast . That is the single factor boggles my mind. To each their own I guess.
The 10th anniversary is my favorite. Nick Jonas ruined the 25th. Marius is too strong of a character to have a so so performance of. I am surprised you chose 25 as your top.
Would love to see the full spreadsheet if you still have it. We could do some interesting analysis on your rankings of the songs, or what is included in each version (if the spreadsheet has that much detail).
I always feel conflicted about "listening" to a full Les Mis album because I'm like "why not watch the concert / movie" 😂 I do listen a lot to the seperate songs though, but rarely a full listen, unless I'm on a plane.
They really threw poor Nick Jonas under the bus with that casting. That aside the 25th is my favourite, and I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that Ramin Karimloo is in it. It's a completely unbiased opinion 😉 As for Michael Ball as Javert... I don't hear Javert at all I just hear Michael Ball trying to outsing every other actor 😂😂
Apparently Nick Jonas had played Gavroche when he was younger on one of the US tours. Also as much as it seems that he was thrown into the role for the 25th concert apparently they did have him do some of the 25th anniversary UK tour shows before it.
To me Michael Ball is more of a man who plays the parts of more gentle, feeling singing parts. I love Quast because he is a complex man while Ball is the one I need when I want to feel better and happy. The beauty of music is that it hits your brain in non conflicted ways as opposed to the state of the world today.
It's either the CSR or the 10th Anniversary Concert for me (and if I could pluck Ramin Karimloo and Hadley Fraser from their timeline and just throw them back in time so they could be in that recording, I would). I disagree with you about the film though. I got *very* into Les Mis about a year before the film came out and when it did come out, it exceeded my expectations in almost every way, and I ended up seeing it in theatres seven times! I've come to realise that liking or disliking the film (or certain performances therein) has largely to do with what people expect from it, and I'd like to share my perspective here (sorry, this has turned into half an essay!). (Just to preface this, because when I've made this point in the past, I have sometimes been accused of not valuing great vocal performances or not knowing anything about good singing: I'm by no means a vocal expert, but I grew up in a family where randomly bursting into song is a frequent occurence and I've also been an amateur choir singer for going on 25 years, so I'm also not a complete novice) The reason why I say it comes down to expectation is because comparing the audio recording of the songs in the film with all the other audio recordings is almost like comparing apples and oranges - of course they don't sound comparable because, imo, the performances in the film were never *meant* to sound like the other recordings. In my view, the film tried to portray normal people who simply express their emotions through singing - and in that, it succeeded. Of course, random normal people breaking into song in everyday situations are not going to deliver stage-worthy performances, but in my opinion, that's okay because they're *not* on stage. Take "I Dreamed a Dream" because I think it's the best illustration of what I'm talking about. Now, I disagree with you about her vocal performance in this. Yes, her acting performance in this scene is amazing, but so is her vocal performance! She does a great job in that scene marrying the two. It's not a performance that would work on a stage, but in my eyes, that holds true vice versa too - a stage-like vocal performance would seem jarringly out of place in this very intimate film. I love that the film chose to do the live singing, and I love that it gives us the opportunity to experience the musical in this way - because we'll never get to experience this more intimate, raw, "normal people" version of the musical on stage, and as you've alluded to, there are so many other recordings we can fall back on for the more bombastic, polished singing. I love that Anne Hathaway in this scene sounds exactly like (well, 10 times better but you get what I mean) I did when I, a normal person, was singing this song over and over again in my bedroom to somehow express my emotions after my ex left me and could hardly make it through a single line without sobbing. Which normal poor factory worker would sing and sound like Lea Salonga does in the 25th Anniversary Concert after what just happened in that scene? (This is not a diss on Lea Salonga, whose performance in both anniversary concerts I adore btw) I sound completely different singing something on stage compared to if I just sing off the cuff because my emotions are threatening to overwhelm me (or just because I'm bored). The film deliberately tries to explore the latter, and I don't think there's anything wrong with taking that route, and, again imo, "normal people singing like normal people in (more or less) normal situations" does not a bad vocal performance make. Of course, they have to be somewhat selective about their "normal people" for the obvious reason that even if they're singing live and meant to marry "singing" and "acting" in whichever way they see fit, it still mustn't be painful for the audience to listen to it. To that end, I feel like the only actor in the entire film who at times misses the mark and crosses the line into the territory of "uncomfortable to listen to" is actually *not* Russell Crowe (I've watched this film so many times and even after all this time, I do not understand why his performance is so universally disliked, because there's absolutely nothing wrong with his singing! It's in tune, his vocal performance never sounds strained, he sounds comfortable enough, he has a good voice, and what more can anyone expect from an ordinary French policeman who has no time to take vocal lessons because all his energy is spent on hunting an ex-con?!), but Hugh Jackman. Hugh Jackman is the only one who is vocally miscast, because he does sometimes sound uncomfortably like he's straining his voice, especially when he's belting and in the higher registers (most especially during Bring Him Home) I understand why people who wanted the film to give them stage-appropriate vocal performances plus a film are disappointed, but I went in expecting - and also wanting - something that feels like it might be how an actual person would sing in that moment. I love that gritty hyper-intimated pseudo-realism, because in other movie musicals, I hate when it's obvious that the vocal performance couldn't have come out of the moment (think Meryl Streep belting her final note in "The Winner Takes It All" in the first Mamma Mia! film, while she starts running up the hill, and the audio remains 100% even and stable, and as much as I love Meryl Streep's performance, that moment alway takes me out of the scene because she starts running uphill, something should audibly change!) And that way, the film gives us something the stage show never could - and whenever I want something different, I revisit any of the other performances or my 10th/25th anniversary DVDs. Sorry for the long, long rant, you're perfectly entitled to your opinion! I just find it so sad that so many people dislike the film because it's not an orange, because they expected and wanted it to be an orange, when the film is actually an apple and apples are just not oranges, but they're no less delicious.
It's funny, a lot of the complaints you have about the original London cast album are the same reasons I prefer it over most other recordings: the songs are performed at tempi that suit them rather than being rushed through at breakneck speed so the orchestra doesn't have to be paid overtime; "Stars" has a much better, more character-centric ending instead closing with a showy bang to let the audience know when to clap; and the cast truly _sing_ the music instead of overemoting their way through them. Even the original orchestrations I find preferable to later productions, especially those of this century. Other recordings I give mad props to are the original Broadway cast (where the Cosette and Enjolras from the 10th Anniversary cast came from); and the original Paris cast, - different from the French concept album - which has a magnificent cast led by Robert Marien, a bit more music than the usual highlights that most cast ablums sport (including the complete "At the End of the Day" and Valjean's trip through the sewers), some much stronger lyrics, and, uniquely, _accurate pronunciation of the character names._
I love the miniseries so much! I love the film and it’s my favourite version but I watched that and I found it so good! Can’t recommend it enough to people who like the story
I loved your video a lot, thank you very much for it. As a huge Les Mis fan (I did with my friends what you did but with all the cast recordings in all the different languages). I really enjoyed watching your point of view in each one case of them. I grew up with the London 1985 and the Bway cd, and because of that they have a special place in my heart. One thing I recommend, is to pay more attention to Warlow in the Symphonic version, you´ll be surprise of how powerful his voice is compared to the rest of Enjolras. Colm Wilkinson was the first choice for that recording, but he was unavailabe at the moment, Dudu Fisher was going to be Valjean, but unfortunateley they ended choosing Gary Morris (a country singer). I also recommend you listen to the Paris 1991 cast recording, even if someone doesn´t speak french, you can feel what is intended to be the meaning of each song, it´s one of the most well balanced recordings (to my opinion) of the old Les Mis recordings. Since Javert is your favorite character, you should listen to the 1988 Vienna Cast, Norbert Lamla will blow your mind! Keep enjoying Les Mis!!! 😊😄😀
I had to laugh when you were talking about the 25th Anniversary concert and suggested subbing in Michael Ball for Nick Jonas. Someone in China actually did that. Almost every time Marius sings they deleted Nick and popped in Michael from the 10th Anniversary concert. It's brilliant! The show is so much better, and it's really fun to see a young Michael sing Marius alongside Alfie's Valjean. (I'd post the link but I lost it. I believe the site was called Bilibili, but I could be wrong. It was a while ago,)
I love that! Michael Ball’s performance can’t be topped
“悲惨世界25周年无马版”😂😂😂（type these in bilibili）
My comment just disappeared 😂
Right its bilibili, they called NickJonas "Little God Horse" which means "what is he doing" or "how bad his voice". While I think Nick is not a bad singer, but not suitble for musical
Nick Jonas is fine, you know? Like, he's a solid singer. But you put him next to Alfie Boe, and suddenly it looks like a guy with water wings swimming next to Michael Phelps. He was just so outclassed, it honestly wasn't fair.
I was at the 10th Anniversary Concert at the Royal Albert Hall in 1995. At the end of Castle In A Cloud it wasn’t a cannon that went off but one of the overhead balloons that were eventually released at the end of the show.
Aaaah! The more you know! Thank you!
@@CoynieReads Your welcome Coynie! It was a great show. I got to go for free as at the time I was working at The Palace Theatre where Les Mis originally was.
You’re so lucky ! What a great concert
Can you tell me what those weird groaning noises were?!?! They drive me absolutely nuts!
Try the original Broadway cast from 1987. Terrance Mann as Javert is great. Quast is my favorite though. Randy Graff as Fantine and Frances Rufelle reprises her London role. Also Colm Wilkinson as Valjean. Give it a listen.
10th anniversary that’s the dream cast , Lea Salonga as Eponine and Michael ball as Marius , no one can beat their a little fall of rain performance and of course, Lea’s On my own was impeccable and divine !
I thought Anthony Warlow absolutely carried the symphonic recording as Enjolras and remains the only real reason to listen to that version.
Fact check says: You are correct! That is the best thing about this recording, though Michael Ball and Philip Quast are both worth mentioning.
This isn't a complete comparison without the Original Broadway Cast version - the best in my opinion. Colm Wilkinson (basically Sean Connery singing as Valjean), Terrence Mann (perhaps not the best "voice" but has the right sound for a young and dangerous Javert), Michael Maguire (the best looking and most powerfully voiced Enjolras), Frances Ruffelle (the best Eponine because she has a voice that really sounds likes she's crying which really transmits the sadness and misery of her character), and Judy Kuhn (who just had an incredible voice - she was literally the singing voice of a Disney princess).
OBC = #1
As someone who fell in love with Les Mis because of the 2012 movie I kind of have a soft spot for it but i can’t deny it’s many flaws altought i was a bit sad when you didn’t mention Aaron Tveit’s outstanding acting. I mean yes of course he’s hot but this man is my favourite Enj from the first time I’ve watched it and he kind of made me fell in love with this character
i confess i didn't like his enjolras when i listened to the album but then i watched the movie and completely fell in love with him! his enjolras is UNMATCHED
Can’t believe no mention of Anthony Warlow’s electrifying Enjolras on the Complete Symphonic Recording! Nobody has ever sung that role better.
i agree completely! in fact he's the one that got me into les mis i only listened to the symphonic recording because of him, he's always been my favourite enjolras
Love Warlow! Discovered him in this recording. Also have Jekyll & Hyde and Secret Garden Highlights with him and Phillip Quast. I had the pleasure of meeting him in Washington D.C. after a performance of Man of La Mancha.
When I am trying to introduce people to Les Mis, I often start with the 1998 Liam Neeson and Geoffrey Rush non-musical version of the musical storyline. This gives them that scope you talked about that you appreciated in the movie version. I then take them to the 10th Anniversary version. As you said, every performance is sooooooo solid. After that they are on their own. It is my humble opinion that no school child in America, public or private should graduate without having been exposed to this story and this music . Thanks for your video and your commitment to the material.
Thank you! I definitely need to get around to the 1998 film one of these days!
@@CoynieReads Geoffrey Rush's Javert is the best acted version there is. (Note: I haven't seen David Oyelowo's yet.)
It's my personal belief that you truly know you love something when you start getting spreadsheets involved 😂 I have to confess, the only version I have consumed is the movie version but I loved hearing all your opinions all the same!
It's the sign that you have so many thoughts and feelings that you know you have to structure them to make sure you're making sense 😂
Do yourself a favor, and do go and listen to/watch other versions. I highly suggest watching both the 10th and 25th anniversary editions . : )
I hated the movie version with a passion. This musical calls out for subline singing and it did not get that in the movie. It's just a pity that no one told the producers that there is an enormous difference between a singer who can act and and actor (no matter how famous) who cannot sing and none of these highly paid actors could do justice to these songs.
Yesss Lea Salonga in the 10th and 25th anniversary versions, just stunning. And love that you shouted out Ramin and Hadley (yes, we ship, we ship very hard isjdkflfdsjfds hahaha)
I saw Lea as Fantine in 07. She was absolutely mind blowing. Drew Sarich played opposite and wow, he had a better performance than Karim as Valjean IMO.
My favorite part of 25th Anniversary-John Owen Jones- is The Confrontation because you can hear Earl Carpenter saying “Damn It”.
What about the original Broadway Cast recording from 1987? It is the first that I ever heard and holds a place in my heart. Terrance Mann as Javert... amazing!
If it is what you are mentioning, it is only a few songs from the show :( (but otherwise awesome)
Caroline you are incorrect. It's a 2-CD set with just as much content as the original London recording.
I actually voiced 8 year old Cosette in the 2001 Focus on the Family Radio Theatre adaptation of Les Misérables. It was such an amazing experience. I also was in a few other radio dramas that Philip Glassborow directed for Focus on the Family Radio Theatre.
So because of that, I recommend the 2001 radio play of Les misérables. Not just because of myself, but because of the awesome people I got to work with, like Brian Blessed, Eve Karpf and the late Geoffrey Palmer.
Now you have me curious as I hadn't heard of a radio play of it. I'll definitely take a listen!
I listened to that as a kid! I really enjoyed Focus on the Family Radio Theater audio books.
This was my introduction to Les Miserables and cemented my love of Brian Blessed for life.
I loved that growing up!
Phillip Quest is also my favourite Javert and the 10th anniversary concert is god tier! I cannot get past Nick Jonas in the 25th enough to enjoy it...although I have only watched it once maybe it’s worth revisiting. Really enjoyed this video! What did you think about the BBC mini series that came out a couple of years ago? I know it’s not a musical, but I really enjoyed it as an adaptation.
Yes, I really enjoyed the BBC adaptation, especially since I read it after reading the book. It was great to be able to see those chapters from the book that weren't in the musical brought to life.
Nick Jonas is totally undervalued as Marius. So what he doesn't have an operatic background. He wasnt hammy like Michael Ball.
Recordist could have amplified his voice a bit. Its a common practice in recordings. As the 25th Anniv. Version was mostly spoken face forward into stationary microphones, acting was discouraged. Only a couple of the cast broke character. Jonas's Empty Tables was the best I've seen. It was more sung from the heart. One weakness to the 25th Anniv. Version was cutting Gavroche's role.
The gal commenting on the versions was arrogant and obsessed. Particularly with Michael Ball. Boe showed absolutely no emotion in his face. Even with regard to his interaction with Cosette. He was cold. I agree that Phillip Quest was faultless. As was Karimloo, so don't compare them with other cast members. How can this commentator go on and on and on almost breathlessly. I wonder who would seek her opinion.
Gary Morris, the Valjean on the International, is a country-western singer with a beautiful voice in my opinion. His Bring Him Home, with the London Symphony, is absolutely a gem. He had a tough task fitting in to the critics. He replaced Colm Wilkinson in NY and was going to play the part his way, his style of singing, and not be anyone else. What more could you ask from a performer. I think he's wonderful, as I do think Colm is. Gary is not my favorite Valjean though; that opinion goes to Jeff Leyton. To me, Jeff Leyton is Valjean. Listen to Jeff Leyton Sing Bring Him Home or Soliloquy
A lot of people don't like Morris, and it seems like it's just because he doesn't sound like Colm, but personally I love Morris' Valjean
i always feel so bad for nick jonas like why did they set him up like that 😭😭
What happened to original broadway? Was Terrence Mann making it too unfair?
How strange...I definitely don't hear Gary Morris doing anything close to a French accent in the International Recording....that said, it was my first recording, and most listened to....and I'm American....so maybe I'm biased.
You know when the spreadsheet comes out you’re in for a ride 😂
You know it!! 😂
I prefer the 10th anniversary over the 25th, but the 25th is noteworthy because it’s more complete than the 10th concert, the 10th suffers from the standing-in-front-of-mics staging (and that shadow in front of Lea’s face is criminal), and there’s more interesting camera work in the 25th. But choosing between them I still choose 10th!
This is an EXCELLENT VIDEO. And I totally understand why you put the 25th anniversary first, I haven’t listened to that version or watched it because it’s not anywhere (sad) so I didn’t realise the cast was so strong! The 10th anniversary is my fave because it’s the one I always go to when I’m listening to Les Mis. Philip Quast is also my favourite Javert, and Judy Kuhn is my favourite Cosette so I love that album, although I haven’t seen the actual concert all the way through so I can’t speak for the acting. I saw the Gielgud concert version with John Owen-Jones and he is definitely one of my favourite Valjeans, he got a standing ovation after Bring Him Home that must have lasted a couple of minutes! He’s just incredible. I actually liked Michael Ball as Javert too, I haven’t listened to the album but in the live performance I thought he was brilliant. Most of my favourite cast members come from the first time I saw the show in London in 2014, as it was just the perfect cast and obviously nostalgia - Rob Houchen, Carrie Hope Fletcher as Eponine (didn’t love her as Fantine tho?), and Peter Lockyer as Valjean. Weirdly the film actually made me fall in love with the show, I hadn’t listened to it fully before that so it also holds a place in my heart, even though I also hate Russell Crowe as Javert... And having a crush on every single actor who plays Enjolras is the universal Les Mis fan experience!!
Is it weird that I desperately want to see your spreadsheet?? 😂 I’m in the mood to go through my favourite performances and properly analyse them like the theatre nerd I am. I just love it when people love things!!! This video made me very happy
ALSO!! Have you seen the video where Philip Quast breaks down how he acts Javert’s Soliloquy? It’s the most incredible thing
Yes!!! I loved hearing his breakdown. Yeah, I really liked Carrie as Fantine but I do generally prefer her Eponine. I think she was a brilliant Eponine. I know you can still buy the 25th online and it's often played on the Sky Arts channel but since the Gielgud DVD came out it's been a bit buried by that, which is a shame! 😩
I think you’ll enjoy the Original Broadway Cast Recording, especially if you liked the 10th anniversary. In my opinion the OBC Recording IS the dream team.
I am a little late to the party but... I have to share my history with Les Mis. So, I've been doing musical theater for a long time. I have been in a teen production, as well as a main stage production.
it's a very close show to my heart. When Lea Salonga was Fantine in the first Broadway revival, my best friend and I not only got to see the show, but we got to go backstage and see the props and the wigs, because my aunt's friend at the time, was a part of the crew. As for when the movie came out.... when Russal crow jumped off the bridge people actually cheered because his singing was sooooooooooooooooo painfully bad. lol I hope one day i can be in les mis again. It's such a good show that I never get tired of.
You completely left out the 1987 original Broadway cast recording!! One of the most well known recordings of this show. It won a grammy for best show album. It contains some definitive performances such as Randy Graff as Fantine, Michael Maguire as Enjolras, Frances Ruffelle as Eponine, and Judy Kuhn as Cosette!!
Little people being cut always feel odd because it's the english version of La Faute à Voltaire, aka the ONLY SONG THAT'S ACTUALLY IN THE BOOK! It has the lyrics Victor Hugo wrote as the chorus, it's perhaps the most popular song of the whole french concept album that birthed this musical... and they cut it! I'll never understand that.
It’s so interesting to hear you talk about the OG London cast, that’s the one I grew up with and felt it had no faults (minus cutting Grantaire out of drink with me). I’m trying to get my friend into Les Mis and that’s how I stumbled upon this video. Guess I gotta rethink some things haha
As someone who generally doesn't like musicals but is a big fan of historical dramas, the realism of the film is what sold it for me. If it was just a straight adaptation of the musical like every other musical film adaptation ever made then the story probably wouldn't have hooked me in the way that it did, and the fact that the story hooked me is what made me start to enjoy the music in its own right and appreciate how much it elevates the story.
Yesssss! I agree, it’s so much better that it’s realistic
Singing is just awful though
The 2012 movie is precious to me
No I just cant agree, the singing is just so bad, if you listen to it it physically hurts
@@maxphilpott9677 Again this is my opinion, and your argument is clearly an exaggeration. And singing also is subjective and depends on your taste. If you don't like it, that doesn't make it factually ''bad'', that's just your opinion.
@@animationmusicals I agree, I agree! ❤️
@@animationmusicals But what about things like Javert's ACCURATE voice? What does that mean?
Also the costumes? They changed Javert from an inspector and gave him that awful prison outfit.
@@fellinuxvi3541 Accurate meaning that his boldness in singing fits Javert's personality. Having a Javert with a weak singing voice instead of a bold one does not fit.
Phenomenal reviews! I had to laugh when you said, "because I have no life." Well, I'm sure you do, but it's awesome hearing someone else's take on various versions of a show I also hold so dear to my heart! I LOVE you enthusiasm for this!
The first version I saw/heard was in '92 on Broadway, and for me, nothing will ever stand up to that version on stage (I saw the show at least 20 times until I moved out of NYC in '97.) I knew all of the lines by heart except for a few that were/are found in "Do You Hear the People Sing." It drove me nuts not knowing - so much that I bought the Complete Symphonic Edition (my favorite as it is the FULL show from beginning to end (although I sooo wish Colm W. was playing Valjean). I bought the album just to get the included booklet with all of the lyrics so that I could finally learn the lines I was missing - "The blood of the waters will meadow the martyrs of France."
I agree that the 10th anniversary concert was the best by far in terms of the cast, but sooo wish it didn't cut anything and was more acted out as seen in the 25th anniversary edition... As for the movie version? Ugh! (Although, like yourself, seeing Colm cast as the bishop was beyond amazing....)
So what other theatre shows musicals/plays have you seen?
I was going to follow your CarolineAnnMartinPhotography page but it doesn't work for some reason??
I'm from the UK in England-have you seen any theatre here live on stage??
Big Les Mis fan. I own many of those recordings. Great analysis! I have to say, one performance that stands out to me is Samantha Barks’ On My Own from the 25th. The build-up to “…that I have never known!” …and the echo of her last word there throughout the arena. Then “I love him…”
Les Mis is my favorite musical, and I listen to all of the albums religiously. Why didn’t you also consider the original Broadway cast? That was the first one I listened to. I’m also five minutes into the video, so if I jumped the gun, that’s why.
As I said, I’m not even a quarter of the way through, here are my opinions:
Russell Crowe was good enough at acting for Javert, but his voice doesn’t fit well.
Alfie Boe is amazing at singing, but I don’t think his voice fits Valjean. To me he sounds a bit more like an opera singer. I don’t know if he was ever in Phantom, but I would LOVE that.
Ramin Karimloo… goodness where do I start? He’s just a powerhouse, and everything he does is amazing.
Whichever album had Ramin, Hadley, and Nick Jonas, that’s not on Apple Music, which is what I use. And I didn’t realize that until I was 2/3 of the way through act one, and I didn’t hear either of them. It was the other 2010 album. Edit: Got it!
The Original London’s opening does sound much less like Les Mis, but I still enjoy it so much?
I also think Norm Lewis is so close to perfect for Javert. Phillip Quast is perfect.
Garry Morris just doesn’t sound like he can belt in the Complete Symphonic Recording
Have you listened to the Original Concept French Album? That is a must-listen if you're a true Les Mis fan
@@JeremyWong194 yes I do!! This is so dorky, but I listen to all of the albums I can find
Truly the best way to describe nick jonas' performance is "not bad but not michael ball"
My favorite is the Original London Cast... 🥰
I had to say that my favorite Confrontation is the one with little Joshua Colley as Valjean :)
How could I forget the most iconic performance?!
the best thing about having multiple recordings is that you'll have multiple versions of your favourite songs and i absolutely love that. a few favourites are: empty chairs, red & black/abc café, do you hear the people sing, a heart full of love, stars, master of the house and confrontation
I love productions that lean heavily into the Grantaire/Enjolras relationship. In the book, Victor Hugo is not subtle in laying out the fact the Grantaire is head-over-heels in love with Enjolras, while Enjolras is clearly described as what we would today call aro-ace. Seeing this dynamic play out on stage gives so much more pathos to the characters and really heightens the tragedy.
What about the non musical versions of les miserables. Liam Nelson played valjean and Geoffrey Rush played Javert in 98. And the older movies. Maybe check which version is the most faithful to the book.
Good idea! I've seen the recent BBC mini-series with Dominic West and David Oyelowo but not the '98 or others.
My favorite version of the movie is the one from 1958. It seems to be the most faithful one I've seen. It's about 3 and a half hours. (Still not enough time to tell everything from the novel)
opinion on dog eats dog? doesn't seem to be in your playlist at all... in my opinion it's one of the most underrated and important character songs in the musical and is so daring to have a song so cynical and dark so late in the show. love this otherwise! such dedication!
Oh, it must have been deleted off of TH-cam since I made the playlist, but my favourite is Alun Armstrong in the 10th anniversary. And I agree, I couldn't believe it was cut in the film!
I'm going to answer this before I even watch the video and say The CSR. I know it doesn't have Lea and Colm but it does have Philip Quest and it's the entire show unedited. I do like them all for so many different reasons. The London Recording has such a different beginning. I love the 10th and 25th. Not a big fan of the movie soundtrack. The French version is fun to listen to just to hear the changes in translation. My answer is still the Complete Symphonic Recording. Lets see if you agree. Now on with the video.
Broadway recording was in between the London and CSR.
i was watching the 2012 concert and my older brother came in the room during the "Pledge Ourselves" section and he says "God these guys are kicking nick jonas in the ass right now"
🤣
10th Anniversary is the very best…I saw it 27 times on Broadway…
The OLC is my favourite recording. I guess it depends on the first you heard and what you refer to. Some of the later recordings sound too overcooked to me. It is indeed strange to do a review take like this without reference to the OBC recording, which as previously mentioned is also excellent
Best version of Les Mis? The 90s non musical version with Liam Neeson.
I didn’t like the film at all, who cast Russell Crowe and why? Why?! I think they prioritised acting too much over singing so some of the acting is good but you can’t hear the melody properly and when parts of the music are repeated and the timing is really bad and they had to record the orchestra afterwards and find a way to make it match up, it’s completely wrong for a musical.
Yep, yep, yep! All of this! 🙌
Nah
This was a fantastic video! I learned so much! I'm a HUGE Les Miz fan and have been ever since I first saw a national tour version of it in 1990. I am a huge fan of the original Les Miz as it was first presented on Broadway in 1987. Thus, I detest all the changes in lyrics and cuts to the show that have been made ever since...even to the point that I recently decided not to go see Les Miz in Los Angeles (where I live) even though it is currently playing at the Pantages Theater. The show today is just not what it used to be. Casts today do not seem to appreciate just how epic this show is supposed to be. I find many of them throwing away their lines and just going through the motions as if it's just a job to them and they just want to get paid. When I saw recent clips from the current Los Angles production, I just had to say, "Sorry...no way!" It's sad! I'm not going to pay $300-$400 to see a cast that isn't going to put their full heart and soul into it.
Having said all that, my favorite version is the Complete Symphonic Recording because it's the most complete version of the original show. I love hearing all of the music especially in between scenes. As I said before, I can't stand all the cuts and changes that have been made in the years since. That's mostly why it's hard for me to watch it on stage today. I also miss the turntable! Luckily, there are some great videos of the entire show from the 1990's and the early 2000's on TH-cam. I'll have to make do with those for now.
Also, I agree with you 100% that the movie is the absolute worst version of Les Miz ever! It is completely unwatchable in my opinion! They had one shot to make this film , and Tom Hooper completely ruined it, and I doubt if I'll ever forgive him! And you're right...this film should never have been sung live! If I had $100 million dollars, I would remake this movie using only the best Broadway and West End singers who have played the parts before. Who cares about A-List actors if they can't sing!!! I usually love Hugh Jackman, but he did not belong in this film (Really??? Screaming "Bring Him Home" at the top of his lungs??? He sounded more like a braying donkey!!!). And Anne Hathaway may have won her Oscar for a great acting performance, but her singing is awful which is what really matters! She sings the worst version of "I Dreamed A Dream" in history! She did not belong in this movie either! And of course, there's no need to even mention Russell Crowe. Big shout out to Samantha Barks though. She was completely in her element and the biggest ray of sunshine on the screen!
Thank you again for making and sharing this fantastic video!!!
I brief comment. I did see the production that is currently in LA earlier in its run when it was at the Kennedy Center in DC. While there have been changes in the production that I am not fond of (i.e., how they handle Javert's death), I cannot fault the cast. They definitely put their heart into it. I like it so much that I recommended to my daughter who lives in LA.
Lea Salonga’s “On My Own” is a Masterclass in singing!
After listening to the Original Concept Album in French, I've almost never gone back to the English versions...
It's definitely a gaping hole in my Les Mis listening! Only reason I've shied away is because I don't speak French myself but probably not a good enough reason!
I actually really like the 1985 version
The greatest is Les Miserables " LIVE .DREAM THE DREAM...of course...it's LIVE and contains the new massive orchestrations...xx 😊
Fantastic review, but yes how can you leave off the 1986 Broadway Cast recording…that’s the BEST!
The 10th anniversary hands down. Its not called dream cast for no reason. Colm Wilkinson, Ruth Henshal, Philip Quast and Lea Salonga just to name a few. This 4 alone vocals is phonomenal. I also thought it had the funniest Thernadier. Plus the orchestra and all Val Jean from around the world. It was just epic.
I have never felt so hard, everything you said I was like "omg yes sis, preach"! I will absolutely check out your ultimate Les Mis playlist because I think it will be very similar to mine haha. Lovely video and very good work at summarizing everything, I'm definitely subscribing!
The movie is defo the best version, I don’t care what people say.
1° read Victor Hugo 2° Maybe begin by the original version in French (1980) you ll find the substrate of V.Hugo's book
Nick Jonas was cast because his dad threw around his weight with Cameron Mackintosh to get him the role and basically harassed him into casting Nick. When Cameron was interviewed about how Nick was going he didnt say he was doing great, just that 'yeah, he seems to be really enjoying it'. I guess musical theatre is simply a game for rich young boys to play.
You forgot the original broadway cast from 1987. Colm Wilkinson, Terrance Mann, etc. Not my favorite but faster and better than original London cast and was the standard version until the horrible changes from 2010 onwards. Have a listen!
I know that you restricted it to English language versions but as this is a French history AND was first done in French it is incroyable that you didn't at least listen to the original French concept album. I note that it is able to be listened to on You Tube and can recommend that all those interested in Les Miserables should listen to it.
Kind of a pointless video, if you don't play snippets of the songs you're talking about. Also....Michael Ball is one of the most overrated singers in musical theatre history, imo. You're spot on about Quast and Solonga, though... 😁
the 1988 javert is Richard Kinsey i think. the image is him, anyway. you can see him in the 1991 recordings on youtube. hes great.
edit: 1988 recording of les mis is Phillip Quast! image is still richard kinsey though
Thank you, THANK YOU, for creating this video of my Les Mis opinions so I don't have to. 😂 Seriously, we agree on basically everything!
The BANG during Castle on a Cloud!! That poor little girl, I wonder if she ever recovered, because I sure haven't.
The Karimloo/Fraser bromance is both REAL and EPIC and spans empires/musicals.
You didn't mention the recording I have on CD, though, with the original Broadway cast. It's not great, honestly. The Eponine annoys me, and there aren't any real standouts aside from Colm Wilkinson and Michael Maguire. I've rarely listened to it, especially since I've had the concerts on DVD.
I haven't listened to as many recordings as you have, but I would say the 10th anniversary concert slightly beats the 25th for me as #1 because I really can't get past Nick Jonas. But you're absolutely right, the rest of the 25th was SO SPECTACULAR. I can't believe they went and randomly name-dropped and ruined it. 😭
Edited to add: I almost forgot to squee about Norm Lewis FALLING at the end of Stars. That thing he does with his voice that makes it sound like he's getting farther away?? It kills me every time!
Aah yes, when I was uploading I saw the Broadway album listed on wikipedia, though I hadn't come across it on Spotify! Will have to do some digging! 😊
Colm Wilkinson is the definitive Valjean. Micheal Ball is my favorite Marius. I love the Thernardiers in the 10th Anniversary dream cast. I agree with you as a whole. I didn't enjoy Nick Jonas as Marius. He sang okay, but his acting left something to be desired. I also love Alfie Bowe as Valjean.
The original Broadway cast is the only answer. Their are only two kinds of Le Mis fans. Those who know the Original Broadway cast Exist and those to young to give it a chance
Wait I also really didn’t like Gary Morris in the full symphonic recording, even though it’s my favorite version lol
Just ordered 10th Anniversary Edition used from Amazon. Beats forwarding through pledge drive when on PBS. Lately they’ve shown 25th Anniversary cast instead. Doesn’t hold up as well. Not really a fan of the movie. See it live every time it comes to town. Every song is great.
The 25th anniversary trying to fit the homoeroticism of the book Grantaire and Enjolras made me so happy because I remember reading the book at like 10 years old and then asking my dad if they were boyfriends.
Despite it's many flaws, I do like how much easier it is to follow the story in the movie version. The plot is so complicated that it can be hard to follow when watching a stage production. That said... Yeah I absolutely don't listen to the soundtrack
I watched the film first and liked it (due to the amazing Samantha Barks) so watched the 25th anniversary concert…
I now have to skip the film to cut out the bad chunks.
To be honest I agree with your opinion but I think the movie should be a bit higher
This is just my opinion, I would put it higher because I got into les miserables like 3 years ago and the movie was the one I first got the feeling with les miserables. Also I wouldn’t put it closer to the top because I think they shouldn’t cut most of the songs and I don’t really like how they had to go with taking/singing instead of just singing the best they can.
It wasnt a cannon at the 10th Anniv Concert - it was a balloon that above the stage for the balloon drop that occurred at the end of the show.
How can you not love the original version, the one that started it all. I will always compare the others with the original London cast.
Hi, I just want to ask which among the adaptations is the most accurate to the book?
Hi, sorry to only be replying to this now! In terms of any adaptation, musical or not, so far from what I've seen the recent BBC adaptation with Dominic West and David Oyelowo has been the closest in terms of book accuracy. It's six episodes so just manages to cram in a lot more material than the musical is able to!
My own favorite is the CSR, mostly because it is in fact complete, the cast by and large gives good performances, and the orchestral performance is on point. Kaho Shimada's accent could occasionally be distracting, but given that she didn't speak a word of English and learned the part phonetically, I have to give her credit for the incredible amount of work she must have put in. The '85 London cast recording will always be special since it was the first one I heard. I think you just kinda have to accept and embrace the differences. I've seen it live five times, and I think my favorite was the West End performance I saw in 2005. They had a turntable malfunction during the scene change to the barricade, and had to stop the show for about 20 minutes while they fixed that. Afterwards they rewound to about 10 minutes prior, the turntable worked fine then, and the rest of the performance continued without a hitch. Having worked in musical theater for many, many years, it was kind of refreshing to see that even world-class performances aren't immune to gremlins.
The 10th and 25th are night and day … how can you possibly even put those two in the same category? Norm Lewis over Phillip quast??!! You need help
I'll admit I'm a little confused by your comment, I literally said that Phillip Quast was my favourite Javert?
@@CoynieReads I’m
Being dramatic just to be clear :)
I just don’t understand how you picked the 25th anniversary concert Over the 10th. If John Owen Jones was in the 25th I could perhaps understand your choice. I saw him live and he was awesome but still 2nd imo to colm . Like you said , javert and Val Jean carry the show . So you’re picking norm and Alfi over colm and Philip quast . That is the single factor boggles my mind. To each their own I guess.
10th anniversary or the movie.. without doubt.... perfect cast is 10th anniversary...
The 10th anniversary is my favorite. Nick Jonas ruined the 25th. Marius is too strong of a character to have a so so performance of. I am surprised you chose 25 as your top.
```Ths is a lovely young lady, but needs to speak more quietly and slowly so we will be able to understand what she is saying
You didn't say much about alfie in 25th . I thought he was fantastic but over qualified .
Would love to see the full spreadsheet if you still have it. We could do some interesting analysis on your rankings of the songs, or what is included in each version (if the spreadsheet has that much detail).
10th anniversary concert was the best by far. Ruthie Henshall made all the difference in the world.
She is brilliant!
I listen to the 1980 french concept album. we are not the same
I always feel conflicted about "listening" to a full Les Mis album because I'm like "why not watch the concert / movie" 😂 I do listen a lot to the seperate songs though, but rarely a full listen, unless I'm on a plane.
Haha, I very easily can trap myself into full listens of the show!! Days of my life have gone by and that's all I've had on 🙈
Sigh… I guess here it’s okay to have bad taste. Whatever floats your boat
Only just saw this...Got to go with Colm, Quast, Ball, Ramin, Frances, Lucas, Galloway, Hall..special mention for Norm Lewis. 10th & 25 so good.
Can this lady please speak slowly and in a normal voice so she can be understood?
They really threw poor Nick Jonas under the bus with that casting. That aside the 25th is my favourite, and I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that Ramin Karimloo is in it. It's a completely unbiased opinion 😉 As for Michael Ball as Javert... I don't hear Javert at all I just hear Michael Ball trying to outsing every other actor 😂😂
Apparently Nick Jonas had played Gavroche when he was younger on one of the US tours. Also as much as it seems that he was thrown into the role for the 25th concert apparently they did have him do some of the 25th anniversary UK tour shows before it.
To me Michael Ball is more of a man who plays the parts of more gentle, feeling singing parts. I love Quast because he is a complex man while Ball is the one I need when I want to feel better and happy. The beauty of music is that it hits your brain in non conflicted ways as opposed to the state of the world today.
Alun Armstrong gives me devotion to the original recording, plus the intro to stars.
It's either the CSR or the 10th Anniversary Concert for me (and if I could pluck Ramin Karimloo and Hadley Fraser from their timeline and just throw them back in time so they could be in that recording, I would).
I disagree with you about the film though. I got *very* into Les Mis about a year before the film came out and when it did come out, it exceeded my expectations in almost every way, and I ended up seeing it in theatres seven times! I've come to realise that liking or disliking the film (or certain performances therein) has largely to do with what people expect from it, and I'd like to share my perspective here (sorry, this has turned into half an essay!).
(Just to preface this, because when I've made this point in the past, I have sometimes been accused of not valuing great vocal performances or not knowing anything about good singing: I'm by no means a vocal expert, but I grew up in a family where randomly bursting into song is a frequent occurence and I've also been an amateur choir singer for going on 25 years, so I'm also not a complete novice)
The reason why I say it comes down to expectation is because comparing the audio recording of the songs in the film with all the other audio recordings is almost like comparing apples and oranges - of course they don't sound comparable because, imo, the performances in the film were never *meant* to sound like the other recordings. In my view, the film tried to portray normal people who simply express their emotions through singing - and in that, it succeeded. Of course, random normal people breaking into song in everyday situations are not going to deliver stage-worthy performances, but in my opinion, that's okay because they're *not* on stage.
Take "I Dreamed a Dream" because I think it's the best illustration of what I'm talking about. Now, I disagree with you about her vocal performance in this. Yes, her acting performance in this scene is amazing, but so is her vocal performance! She does a great job in that scene marrying the two. It's not a performance that would work on a stage, but in my eyes, that holds true vice versa too - a stage-like vocal performance would seem jarringly out of place in this very intimate film. I love that the film chose to do the live singing, and I love that it gives us the opportunity to experience the musical in this way - because we'll never get to experience this more intimate, raw, "normal people" version of the musical on stage, and as you've alluded to, there are so many other recordings we can fall back on for the more bombastic, polished singing. I love that Anne Hathaway in this scene sounds exactly like (well, 10 times better but you get what I mean) I did when I, a normal person, was singing this song over and over again in my bedroom to somehow express my emotions after my ex left me and could hardly make it through a single line without sobbing. Which normal poor factory worker would sing and sound like Lea Salonga does in the 25th Anniversary Concert after what just happened in that scene? (This is not a diss on Lea Salonga, whose performance in both anniversary concerts I adore btw)
I sound completely different singing something on stage compared to if I just sing off the cuff because my emotions are threatening to overwhelm me (or just because I'm bored). The film deliberately tries to explore the latter, and I don't think there's anything wrong with taking that route, and, again imo, "normal people singing like normal people in (more or less) normal situations" does not a bad vocal performance make.
Of course, they have to be somewhat selective about their "normal people" for the obvious reason that even if they're singing live and meant to marry "singing" and "acting" in whichever way they see fit, it still mustn't be painful for the audience to listen to it. To that end, I feel like the only actor in the entire film who at times misses the mark and crosses the line into the territory of "uncomfortable to listen to" is actually *not* Russell Crowe (I've watched this film so many times and even after all this time, I do not understand why his performance is so universally disliked, because there's absolutely nothing wrong with his singing! It's in tune, his vocal performance never sounds strained, he sounds comfortable enough, he has a good voice, and what more can anyone expect from an ordinary French policeman who has no time to take vocal lessons because all his energy is spent on hunting an ex-con?!), but Hugh Jackman. Hugh Jackman is the only one who is vocally miscast, because he does sometimes sound uncomfortably like he's straining his voice, especially when he's belting and in the higher registers (most especially during Bring Him Home)
I understand why people who wanted the film to give them stage-appropriate vocal performances plus a film are disappointed, but I went in expecting - and also wanting - something that feels like it might be how an actual person would sing in that moment. I love that gritty hyper-intimated pseudo-realism, because in other movie musicals, I hate when it's obvious that the vocal performance couldn't have come out of the moment (think Meryl Streep belting her final note in "The Winner Takes It All" in the first Mamma Mia! film, while she starts running up the hill, and the audio remains 100% even and stable, and as much as I love Meryl Streep's performance, that moment alway takes me out of the scene because she starts running uphill, something should audibly change!) And that way, the film gives us something the stage show never could - and whenever I want something different, I revisit any of the other performances or my 10th/25th anniversary DVDs.
Sorry for the long, long rant, you're perfectly entitled to your opinion! I just find it so sad that so many people dislike the film because it's not an orange, because they expected and wanted it to be an orange, when the film is actually an apple and apples are just not oranges, but they're no less delicious.
Don’t worry, I live for Les Mis rants!!
my favorite movie is 1995 of Les Miserables and 25th anniversary concert only two movie i like to watch
It's funny, a lot of the complaints you have about the original London cast album are the same reasons I prefer it over most other recordings: the songs are performed at tempi that suit them rather than being rushed through at breakneck speed so the orchestra doesn't have to be paid overtime; "Stars" has a much better, more character-centric ending instead closing with a showy bang to let the audience know when to clap; and the cast truly _sing_ the music instead of overemoting their way through them. Even the original orchestrations I find preferable to later productions, especially those of this century.
Other recordings I give mad props to are the original Broadway cast (where the Cosette and Enjolras from the 10th Anniversary cast came from); and the original Paris cast, - different from the French concept album - which has a magnificent cast led by Robert Marien, a bit more music than the usual highlights that most cast ablums sport (including the complete "At the End of the Day" and Valjean's trip through the sewers), some much stronger lyrics, and, uniquely, _accurate pronunciation of the character names._
I agree
Have you seen the BBC miniseries (2019)? It's not musical but I think it's the superior adaptation :)
Sorry I'm only seeing this so late but yes I have and I loved it! ☺
I love the miniseries so much! I love the film and it’s my favourite version but I watched that and I found it so good! Can’t recommend it enough to people who like the story
"And ina BeEd!"
And we're counting our blessings! 🤣
Me watching this thinking Rusell Crowe is the best Javert*
Sorry!! *hides in a corner*
@@CoynieReads its been a year and I can now understand what's wrong with Rusell Crowe
@@pabloramosperez952 I still can't. Loved Russell 💛
Same, love him!!!
I loved your video a lot, thank you very much for it. As a huge Les Mis fan (I did with my friends what you did but with all the cast recordings in all the different languages). I really enjoyed watching your point of view in each one case of them. I grew up with the London 1985 and the Bway cd, and because of that they have a special place in my heart. One thing I recommend, is to pay more attention to Warlow in the Symphonic version, you´ll be surprise of how powerful his voice is compared to the rest of Enjolras. Colm Wilkinson was the first choice for that recording, but he was unavailabe at the moment, Dudu Fisher was going to be Valjean, but unfortunateley they ended choosing Gary Morris (a country singer). I also recommend you listen to the Paris 1991 cast recording, even if someone doesn´t speak french, you can feel what is intended to be the meaning of each song, it´s one of the most well balanced recordings (to my opinion) of the old Les Mis recordings. Since Javert is your favorite character, you
should listen to the 1988 Vienna Cast, Norbert Lamla will blow your mind! Keep enjoying Les Mis!!! 😊😄😀
Guys I think she doesn’t like the movie version
The original west recording for me
10th is king, Philip quast’s javert 💯
Uhh original Broadway cast?
all are fantastic no need for this sorry byeeeeee
Can you post your spreadsheet? I’d LOVE to look it over.