Jean Valjean Origin Film in the Works From Éric Besnard, Starring Gregory Gadebois (EXCLUSIVE)

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The classic character Jean Valjean from Victor Hugo’s novel “Les Misérables” is set to appear on the silver screen under the direction of French filmmaker Éric Besnard, who is known for his period piece “Delicious.” This means that the backstory of the famous protagonist will be adapted into a movie by Besnard.

The filming of the movie began on January 14 amid the beautiful scenery of Southern France, and it is now being handled by Federations Studios’ sales division Ginger & Fed under Sabine Chemaly’s leadership. The project has been unveiled to potential buyers at the Unifrance Rendez-Vous event in Paris, which started on January 13.

In their second collaboration, “Valjean” reunites director Jean-Pierre Behnard with French actor Gregory Gadebois, who previously worked together in the 19th-century movie “Louise Violet”. This time, Gadebois takes on the role of Valjean, sharing the screen with Bernard Campan, Isabelle Carré and Alexandra Lamy.

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For their second project, Jean-Pierre Behnard works again with French actor Gregory Gadebois, whom he previously directed in “Louise Violet”. In this new film titled “Valjean”, Gadebois plays the character Valjean alongside Bernard Campan, Isabelle Carré and Alexandra Lamy.

Clément Miserez and Matthieu Warter of Radar Films (which is under the Mediawan banner) are handling the production. Warner Bros. France will handle the local distribution. France 3 Cinéma is a co-producer on the project. “Valjean” has support from Ciné+, OCS, HBO Max, Entourage, and Cinécap as well.

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Radar Films (owned by Mediawan) is producing “Valjean”, with Warner Bros. France taking care of local distribution. France 3 Cinéma is a co-producer on the project. The film also has backing from Ciné+, OCS, HBO Max, Entourage, and Cinécap.

In a recent conversation, I shared with EbMaster my thoughts on an upcoming movie that follows the transformative journey of Jean Valjean. This ambitious feature traces his evolution from a tough-as-nails criminal to a virtuous individual and a hero, all triggered by an encounter with a kindly bishop who shows him unexpected compassion.

Similar to Eric Besnard’s past films like ‘Delicieux’ and ‘Louise Violet,’ ‘Valjean’ also has a deeply human aspect that revolves around redemption,” notes Chemaly. He refers to the film as the “backstory” of Valjean, detailing his transformation or “metamorphosis.

The movie traces the story of Jean Valjean, who, upon release from prison, harbors bitterness and loses faith in everything. He’s shunned and perceived as dangerous. However, his life undergoes an unexpected transformation following an encounter with a bishop who shows him kindness and generosity, even though Valjean had stolen from him.

In essence, Chemaly explains that the act of kindness from the bishop serves as a pivotal moment for Jean Valjean, proving to him that goodness still exists in the world. This encounter causes Valjean to reconsider his actions and opens his eyes to alternative life paths. The movie then portrays the journey that transforms Valjean into the man he was destined to be – a compassionate individual dedicated to assisting others. Among other significant characters, the bishop, along with his servant and sister, play crucial roles in the film.

The movie, budgeted at approximately 7 million euros, boasts a variety of outdoor sets with a focus on showcasing natural landscapes, much like in previous films by director Besnard. Radar Films, known for their successful productions such as the “Belle et Sebastien” series and the latest film “On the Wandering Paths” starring Jean Dujardin, is behind this production.

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The upcoming movie, with a budget of around 7 million euros, showcases numerous outdoor sets highlighting natural environments, similar to director Besnard’s previous works. This film is produced by Radar Films, famous for hit movies like the “Belle et Sebastien” series and the recent Jean Dujardin starrer “On the Wandering Paths”.

Following the acclaimed productions of “The Count of Monte-Cristo” and “The Three Musketeers” by a different company under the umbrella of Mediawan, “Valjean” is anticipated to generate curiosity among global distributors.

Additionally, Ginger & Fed’s sales lineup features “The Future Awaits,” a World War II-set drama by Niels Tavernier, which is inspired by a true Holocaust survivor’s story.

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2025-01-14 15:18