Did you know that the streets of Paris hold secrets that even the most observant eye might miss?
Just like the crows, one of the most intelligent animals on planet earth, who have an uncanny ability to spot hidden treasures, the movie Les Misérables takes us on a gripping journey through the underbelly of the city.
This 2019 French crime thriller, directed by Ladj Ly, will leave you on the edge of your seat, as it unravels a tale of power, corruption, and the desperate struggle for justice.
Brace yourself, for this is a story that will both captivate and haunt you long after the credits roll.
Synopsis
In the aftermath of a joyous celebration in Paris, Stéphane Ruiz, a new police officer, is assigned to work with a squad known for their aggressive tactics. When a juvenile delinquent steals a lion cub, chaos ensues as the officers try to retrieve it.
In the midst of the chase, a tragic incident occurs, leaving Stéphane questioning his colleagues' actions.
As tensions rise, they find themselves caught in a dangerous situation, fighting for their lives against a vengeful group of young people.
With the fate of their squad hanging in the balance, Stéphane must make a difficult decision that will test his loyalty and sense of justice.
Inspired by Victor Hugo's Les Misérables, this gripping crime thriller explores the complexities of power, morality, and redemption in a divided society.
A Moment of Brotherhood
Paris erupts in celebration as the French team triumphs in the World Cup. A moment of unity between people of different backgrounds, a glimpse of hope in a divided world.
A New Assignment
Stéphane, a new police officer in Paris, joins the anti-crime brigade. Assigned to work with Chris and Gwada, he witnesses the abuse of power and turns a blind eye. But unease lingers within him.
The Stolen Cub
Issa, a troubled youth, steals a lion cub from a circus. The owner, Zorro, demands its return, threatening violence. Chris and his team are tasked with finding the cub, setting off a chain of events.
A Dangerous Chase
Issa is captured, but his friends retaliate, attacking the officers. In the chaos, Gwada accidentally shoots Issa, leaving him badly wounded. Filmed by a drone, their actions are exposed.
The Search for Truth
The trio sets out to find the owner of the drone, desperate to retrieve the incriminating footage. They encounter Buzz, who possesses the memory card, and seek refuge with Salah, a local restaurant owner.
Confrontation
Tensions rise as the squadron and the Mayor converge on Salah's restaurant. Chris attempts an illegal arrest, but Ruiz convinces Salah to hand over the memory card, claiming Issa's shooting was an accident.
Lessons Learned
Issa and the cub are returned to the circus, but Zorro's cruelty leaves Issa traumatized. Chris warns him to keep silent, while doubts and distress haunt the characters involved.
Unveiling the Truth
Ruiz confronts Gwada, revealing his knowledge of the intentional shooting. Gwada blames stress, but Ruiz hands him the memory card, urging him to face the consequences.
A Desperate Battle
The squadron is ambushed by Issa and his group, trapped and fighting for their lives. Backup fails to arrive, and the young people unleash chaos, attacking the Mayor's office and leaving the officers cornered.
A Moment of Decision
Stéphane seeks help, pounding on Buzz's door, but finds it locked. Issa prepares a molotov cocktail, forcing Stéphane to make a choice. Darkness falls as they both contemplate their next move.
The Power of Redemption
As the screen fades to black, a quote from Victor Hugo's Les Misérables reminds us that there are no inherently bad people, only those who have been led astray. The story leaves us pondering the power of redemption and the choices we make.
Discussion topics
Summing up the main ideas
So, you've just finished watching Les Misérables and your mind is buzzing with thoughts and emotions. I mean, how could it not be? This French crime thriller takes you on a rollercoaster ride of intensity and moral dilemmas that leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about justice and humanity. It's a story that grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go until the very last frame.
From the moment we meet Stéphane, a rookie cop trying to find his place in the gritty streets of Montfermeil, we are thrust into a world that is both familiar and foreign. The tension is palpable as we witness the simmering anger and frustration of the marginalized communities, the very same anger that eventually explodes into chaos and violence. It's a powder keg waiting to ignite, and as viewers, we can't help but be caught in the crossfire.
But what makes Les Misérables truly remarkable is its ability to humanize even the most flawed and morally ambiguous characters. We see the complexities of their lives, the struggles they face, and the choices they make, all of which blur the lines between right and wrong. It's a stark reminder that in the real world, things are rarely black and white. Life is messy, and so are the decisions we make.
As the story unfolds, we are confronted with uncomfortable truths about power dynamics and systemic injustice. We witness the abuse of authority, the corruption that runs deep within the police force, and the devastating consequences it has on the lives of those it is meant to protect. It's a sobering reflection on the state of our society, one that forces us to question our own complicity in these systems of oppression.
So, what can we take away from Les Misérables? Well, for starters, it's a wake-up call. It forces us to confront the uncomfortable realities that exist just beyond our own bubble of privilege. It challenges us to examine our own biases and prejudices, and to question the systems that perpetuate inequality. But perhaps most importantly, it reminds us of the power of empathy and understanding. In a world that often feels divided, Les Misérables serves as a powerful reminder that we are all connected, and that our actions have consequences.
So, the next time you find yourself in a heated debate about justice or inequality, remember the lessons of Les Misérables. Let it be a catalyst for change, a spark that ignites a fire within you to fight for a more just and compassionate world. Because in the end, it's not just a movie. It's a call to action.
LES MISÉRABLES - Official Trailer
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Les Misérables explained / Understanding the ending and story - CR1 2020
Les Misérables / Alternative ending - CR1 2020
Unveiling the Dark Underbelly, A Gripping Tale of Crime and Redemption - CR1 2020
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