Movie spotlight
Les Misérables - Part 2: Fantine
Jean Valjean, guilty of a minor theft of food, is pursued and hounded for years by a relentless lawman, Javert.
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Plot Summary
This installment focuses on the tragic life of Fantine, a virtuous working-class woman who is abandoned by her lover and forced into prostitution to support her illegitimate daughter, Cosette. She endures immense hardship and suffering, eventually selling her hair and teeth to pay for Cosette's care at the clutches of the Thénardiers. Her story is a poignant portrayal of societal cruelty and maternal sacrifice.
Critical Reception
As a pioneering film of its era, 'Les Misérables - Part 2: Fantine' was a significant achievement in early cinema, lauded for its ambitious scope and emotional depth. While specific contemporary critical reviews are scarce, its release was part of a larger film adaptation that aimed to bring Victor Hugo's epic novel to the screen with unprecedented fidelity and impact, resonating with audiences captivated by its dramatic narrative and historical setting.
What Reviewers Say
A powerful and moving depiction of a woman's struggle against adversity.
An early cinematic triumph that captured the essence of Hugo's novel.
Showcased impressive acting and direction for its time.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific 1913 film is not available.
Fun Fact
This 1913 adaptation of 'Les Misérables' was originally released in multiple parts, with 'Fantine' being the second installment, allowing for a more detailed exploration of the characters and their stories than was typical for films of that length at the time.
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