Jean Valjean
One of the most redemptive and expressive show of Christ's love in cinema
2 Apr 2026 
Russ Matthews Les Misérables is Victor Hugo’s masterwork—adapted countless times for film and widely recognised as one of the most celebrated musicals of all time. At its centre is Jean Valjean (Grégory Gadebois), a character regarded as one of literature’s most profound examples of redemption and sacrifice. Writer/director Éric Besnard (Delicious) revisits Hugo’s world to offer an origin story, providing new depth to this iconic figure.
Set in Provence, France, in the early 1800s, Valjean has just been released from prison after serving 19 years for stealing a loaf of bread. Marked by his past and with little to offer society, he is rejected wherever he turns—until he arrives at the home of Monseigneur Bienvenu (Bernard Campan). Though some within the household treat him with suspicion, the bishop extends remarkable grace, offering food, shelter, and dignity. Faced with such unexpected mercy, Jean must decide what he will do with this second chance.
Within the familiarity of this well-known story, Besnard offers a fresh and emotionally raw perspective on these characters. Set against the captivating French countryside, the film explores the boundless nature of empathy and redemption. Jean Valjean shifts between hero and potential villain as his circumstances unfold, while Monseigneur Bienvenu emerges as the true embodiment of compassion—serving as a quiet redeemer to those forgotten by society.
As seen in Delicious, Grégory Gadebois and Isabelle Carré deliver understated yet compelling performances, capturing the growing tension within the bishop’s household. However, it is Bernard Campan who leaves the strongest impression, portraying one of cinema’s most profoundly empathetic and forgiving figures. Éric Besnard crafts a layered and contemplative story that invites audiences not only to watch, but to reflect.
REEL DIALOGUE: Can we be redeemed?
Redemption lies at the heart of both Les Misérables and Éric Besnard’s portrayal of Jean Valjean. The driving force behind Valjean’s journey is his longing to be freed from the weight of his past.
At a fundamental level, we all share this desire—for acceptance, forgiveness, and ultimately, redemption.
As we move through life, many of us reach a point where we recognise our need to make amends—for the ways we have hurt others, ourselves, or even distanced ourselves from God. This longing sits at the very core of the Bible’s message. Through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, a path to redemption is offered—freely available to all who are willing to receive it.
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” — Ephesians 1:7
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