Hey, guys!
So, as you can remember from my last post, today's blog is going to be all about the songs and the summary of Les Miserables. There are, like, a bajillion songs in that musical so you better pee right now. You don't want to miss this. Haha so let's start!
1. Prologue (The Work Song)
Or you might know this as "Look Down." This is the very first song in this musical and it's amazing. First impression lasts, so good musicals start with good songs. The prisoners in Bagne prison in France was working. In the stage musical, they have their prisoners working in the ship (correct me if I'm wrong) while in the 2012 film adaptation, they have their prisoners working in the sea, pulling the ropes of the ship. I have no idea why the hell they changed it, but the effects were super cool. This is where we met Jean Valjean (prisoner 24601), the main character of the musical. He was released by Javert, an inspector, but he told Valjean he's still in parole.
Prisoners working in the ship (stage musical)
Prisoners working in the sea, pulling the ship (2012 film adaptation)
2. Prologue: On Parole
After Javert gave Valjean his ticket (he was on parole, remember?), Valjean left and tried to live normally. He started this by looking for a job. However, the people he wanted to work for doesn't want him, because he's a dangerous criminal and all. But, seriously, Valjean was only sent to jail for stealing a freaking loaf bread. How the hell does that make you a dangerous criminal? Oh well, this was in 1815. People were a lot dramatic back then.
Valjean's parole letter
Valjean was desperate. Fortunately, the Bishop of Digne agreed to let him in his house. He even fed him, and called him "brother" like he was an innocent man. Valjean was amazed by this bishop, but in the dead of night, while everybody in the bishop's house was asleep, Valjean got up and stole the bishop's silverware.
3. Prologue: Valjean Arrested, Valjean Forgiven
In the morning, the constables found Valjean and saw the stolen goods. He was brought back to the Bishop's house and they told the Bishop that they found the man who had stolen his things. The Bishop just shook his head and said that the man didn't steal it from him - he simply gave it to him. Valjean was shocked to learn that the Bishop was on his side. The Bishop told Valjean that he must use this second chance for the better and at once, Valjean felt ashamed for his wrong doings.
The Bishop forgiving Valjean
4. Prologue: What Have I Done?
Worry no more, this is the last prologue haha. This song is also known as "Valjean's Soliloquy." This was when Valjean decided to be a new person, to be a changed man. He wanted to change his wrongdoings. This has got to be one of my favorite songs in this musical. In the end of the song, Valjean ripped his parole letter to pieces.
Hugh Jackman as Valjean in What Have I Done
5. At The End of the Day
Let's jump to eight years later! The song is started by the beggars of France, singing about the hardships in their lives. Then the scene moves to the factory female workers, gossiping about their co-worker Fantine. Rumors has it that Fantine has a bastard child, which was a big thing back then. One worker snatched Fantine's letter and read it out loud. Fantine confirmed the rumors were true but said that everybody has a secret, not only her. Then Mayor Madeleine, the mayor of the town, barged in as Fantine and the woman were about to fight. He told the foreman, who was in charge of them, that he must sort this out. As Mayor Madeleine was about to leave, Fantine went up to him and begged him to help her. But he was in a hurry and was gone. The foreman knew about Fantine and he wanted to sleep with her but Fantine rejected him. Insulted by her rejection, the foreman fired Fantine.
Beggars in the beginning of the song
6. I Dreamed a Dream
One of the most beautiful ballads in the musical theater. When Fantine got fired in her job, she reminisced about the hopes and dreams that she wished when she was younger. She also thought about the man who she was once loved, but only left her. This song is really powerful and it will give you chills. My favorite line in the whole musical is stated here: I had a dream my life would be so different from this hell I'm living, so different now from what it seemed. God, that sounds so depressing doesn't it?!
Madalena Alberto as Fantine in I Dreamed a Dream
7. Lovely Ladies
Remember the letter Fantine had in At The End of the Day? It was a letter sent by the innkeeper and his wife (the people where she left her daughter Cosette) stating that Cosette is very sick and she needs treatment. But because Fantine got fired in her job, she doesn't have money left. She tried to sell her hair and her necklace but it wasn't enough. And that leads her to prostitution. So, yeah, this song is mostly sung by the prostitutes. But in the end you realize it has actually a powerful meaning. And also in the end of the song, Fantine agreed to sleep with a man and ended the song with this yet another powerful line: Don't they know they're making love to one already dead?
The Lovely Ladies
8. Fantine's Arrest
Bamatabois, some rich guy, wanted to sleep with Fantine (who is now very sickly) but she doesn't want to. He got angry and tried to force Fantine, but that only made her to fight back and accidentally hurt him. As if on cue, Javert approached them and asked what's the matter. Bamatabois lied and told Javert that the prostitute attacked him while he was innocently walking. Javert promised Bamatabois that he will have justice by arresting Fantine. Fantine sobbed, saying she didn't do it and that she doesn't have to be in jail because she has a child to provide for. Mayor Madeleine entered the scene and said that he believed Fantine's story. He also told Fantine that she looked familiar, and then he realized he was the factory girl that got in trouble the other day. He tried to help her but Fantine refused, because he let her down once. Madeleine realized his mistakes and told Javert that he will place Fantine in the hospital because she is very sick. Javert tried to stop him, but Madeleine insisted.
Mayor Madeleine tries to help Fantine
9. The Runaway Cart
Some time after this, Madeleine rescued a man who was trapped in his own cart. Because he was super strong, Madeleine lifted the cart with his bare hands. Javert watched in amazement as the mayor helped the man. Afterwards, Javert told him that he only knew one man who can do what he just did. But it couldn't be him, because that man, prisoner 24601, who tried to break his parole, is now arrested. I think we all know that Madeleine is Valjean, right?
Madeleine (a.k.a Valjean) lifts the cart
10. Who Am I? / The Trial
As stated earlier, Javert told Valjean that they already caught prisoner 24601 but we all know that this was a mistake because Valjean is truly prisoner 24601. In this song, Valjean fought with his feelings. Should he tell the truth that he's the real prisoner 24601 or would he stay silent and let an innocent man suffer his sins? In the end, Valjean decided that he's a good man and he should speak out the truth. And so he went to the trial, showed the judges the numbers upon his skin and said that he is prisoner 24601.
Valjean shows his prisoner number branded upon his skin
11. Fantine's Death / Come To Me
Meanwhile, Fantine is left in the hospital. She began to dream about her daughter Cosette visiting her in the hospital. Valjean, who left the trial and went to the hospital, assured Fantine that she will see her daughter. Fantine made Valjean promise to take care of her daughter and that she would give her to his keeping. Then, Fantine died.
Valjean and Fantine in her last hours
12. The Confrontation
In this song, Javert walked in just as Fantine died. Javert began to confront Valjean about his true identity, and that he would go back in jail. Valjean pleaded him to give him three days because he needs to get Cosette. Javert said he was not stupid, and he wouldn't let him. They fought for awhile but Valjean got away.
Valjean and Javert fights
13. Castle on a Cloud
Change scene! Back in Montfermeil, Cosette was cleaning the house while singing a song about her dreams. I usually think this song is Cosette's version of I Dreamed a Dream, which her mother had sung earlier. Except that Cosette is singing about a mother and Fantine is singing about her lover. If you could remember, Fantine received a letter from the Thenardiers (the people whom she left her daughter to) that Cosette is very sick. But in truth, she wasn't. The Thenardiers were just trolling her because they lurve money. So, yeah, Fantine died for nothing. Cosette was interrupted in her thoughts when Mme. Thenardier arrived and ordered her to fetch some water in the woods.
Cosette sweeping the floors in Castle on a Cloud
14. Master of the House
This song is where you're going to meet the Thenardiers. This is the only song in the whole musical where you get to laugh (in an appropriate manner). This shows the corrupt ways of the Thenardiers in their own business and how they teach their daughter, Eponine, about their lifestyle.
The Thenardiers with their guests
15. The Well Scene
Remember that Mme. Thenardier ordered Cosette to fetch some water in the woods? Well, there, she met Valjean. I have no idea how he ended up in the woods (please tell me if you know so I won't remain ignorant). Valjean learned that Cosette was actually Fantine's daughter (what are the freaking odds?!) and accompanied her back to the Thenardiers.
(Also, no available photo for this. Sorry about that.)
16. The Bargain / Waltz of Treachery
Valjean soon realized that the Thenardiers were bad people and he made up his mind to take Cosette away from them. The Thenardiers demanded money from him (a lot of money) saying that Cosette doesn't come cheap since they spent a lot of money for her. Valjean paid them and left with Cosette.
Thenardiers demanding Valjean their money
17. Suddenly (2012 film only)
This was a song that was only heard from the 2012 film adaptation. In this song, Valjean sings to himself about of being responsible to a child. He was nervous, but also happy that Cosette will keep him company. This is a great song for new fathers out there.
Valjean sings to a sleeping Cosette
18. Look Down
Let us skip nine years more! France is poorer than ever, and people are turning desperate. Two students, Marius and Enjolras, wanted to help the people and they're planning to take down the monarchy. Gavroche, a street boy, also wanted to help, despite he's only a youngster. He also introduced the Thenardiers and their daughter, Eponine, who got poor over the years. They also had a gang where they like to trick people into giving them money.
The poor people in France
19. The Robbery
Before going back to her parents, Eponine decided to talk to Marius, whom she secretly has a crush on (or maybe more than a crush? Hmmm...) But then her parents called her, and she was forced to leave Marius. Marius wanted to know what she was up to, but she wouldn't tell him. She left and Marius ran after her, bumping with a teenage Cosette. They fell in love at first sight. Valjean approached Cosette and was called by the Thenardier gang to ask him for help. Thenardier recognized Valjean and he was about to attack him when Eponine shouted that Javert is coming.
Marius and Cosette falls in love with each other at first sight
20. Javert's Intervention
Javert asked Valjean, not knowing it was actually him, what was the problem. But while he was busy scrutinizing the Thenardiers, Valjean ran away with Cosette. Javert was confused why he ran away, and Thenardier told him that he is supposed to arrest Valjean, not him, because he stole Cosette away from him. Javert thought about prisoner 24601 and asked himself whether it was him or not.
Javert intervening
21. Stars
That night, Javert sung to himself about finding the prisoner who had done wrong. He wanted to find him and to lock him behind bars because it was his duty and responsibility. Javert is actually a good person, and he is actually not a villain in Les Mis. This song is very nice and I love it.
Javert promising he'd find Valjean
22. Eponine's Errand
Eponine recognized Cosette as the child her parents used to order around when she was younger. Marius approached Eponine and asked her help to find Cosette. Eponine asked him what he would give him in return, hoping for something else. Marius offered her some money but Eponine refused, insulted. Marius pleaded her once more and finally, Eponine agreed even though she doesn't want to.
Marius asking Eponine's help
23. ABC Cafe / Red and Black
At a small cafe, Enjolras was having a meeting with some of his fellow students who wanted to take down the monarchy. Marius arrived, late, and was asked what was wrong. He expressed that he was finally in love. Grantaire, a drunk student and (for me) Enjolras' best friend, mocked him about this. Enjolras asked Marius what was more important - his country or this petty puppy love? He tried to convince Marius that he must put his country first in his priorities.
The students in ABC Cafe
24. Do You Hear The People Sing?
Gavroche told the students that General Lamarque is dead. Enjolras told them that this was a sign and that they should start in their revolution. They ran to the streets and sang this song, and everybody joined in. When I first watched this musical, there were two songs that caught my eye. This was the first one. It's really catchy, and the lyrics are really good.
Enjolras leads the people in Do You Hear The People Sing?
25. Rue Plumet - In My Life
Let us all take a break with the students' life and focus on Cosette's. Back at Valjean's house, Cosette was thinking about the boy she met earlier and wondered whether she would meet him again. Valjean returned, and noticed that Cosette was really lonely. Cosette asked him about his past but he doesn't want her to know about it. Meanwhile, Marius was expressing his feelings to Eponine, saying he never felt like this before. Unbeknownst to him, Eponine was in love with him and it hurts her to hear him saying things like that.
Cosette asking Valjean about his past
26. A Heart Full of Love
Eponine led Marius to Cosette's house. Marius secretly climbed up the gates just to see Cosette. There, they sang their love for each other while Eponine watched them sadly. This is really a powerful scene because you will see two people finding love while one person is losing it.
Cosette and Marius sing their love for each other...
...while Eponine watches them sadly.
27. The Attack on Rue Plumet
While Marius and Cosette were having their time of their lives, Thenardier arrived with his gang. Eponine screamed to alert them so that her father won't hurt Marius. Marius introduced Eponine to Cosette quickly and then left with Eponine. Valjean, who heard Eponine's scream, went to Cosette to check up on her. Cosette lied to him saying it was her shout because she saw shadows moving. Valjean thought it was Javert and his men so he decided to leave the country.
Thenardier and his gang
28. One Day More
All the characters in the musical (who are still alive since Fantine is obviously dead) singing with different thoughts. Valjean sang about getting away from Javert's hands; Marius and Cosette sang about their love for each other and how they couldn't be together; Eponine sang about being on her own; Enjolras sang about the freedom of his people; the Thenardiers sang about corruptness (what else?) and Javert sang about the students who will try to fight the monarchy. And Act 1 is done.
The cast and ensemble singing One Day More
29. Building the Barricade (Upon These Stones)
The students built a barricade to stop the soldiers. Javert who was disguised as one of them volunteered to spy on them. Enjolras believed him and agreed. Eponine, disguised as a man, went up to Marius and asked if she could be of help. Marius, annoyed that Eponine was there and that she could be hurt, told her that she could help by sending his farewell letter to Cosette. Eponine delivered the letter to Valjean. Valjean, thinking Eponine was a boy, told her to be careful because there are dangers in the streets tonight.
The students as they build the barricade
30. On My Own
Aaah, my favorite song! Haha in this song, Eponine was walking back to the barricades and sang to herself about her unrequited love. This song really struck me the very first time I heard this. I felt Eponine's sadness through this song and I can't help feeling sorry for her. This is my favorite song in Les Mis and probably my most favorite musical song EVER. I sang this in my audition in my music group and I was able to get in!
Lea Salonga as Eponine in her rendition of On My Own
31. At the Barricade (Upon These Stones)
The French army arrived and told the students to surrender, but they still stand strong.
32. Javert's Arrival
Javert arrived back from his so-called "spying" and informed Enjolras and the others that they won't be attacking tonight since they intend them to starve.
33. Little People
Gavroche, who was all along in the barricades, recognized Javert and called him a liar. Javert was arrested and was held captive by the students when they realized he was a snake in the grass.
Gavroche recognizes Javert
34. A Little Fall of Rain (Eponine's Death)
Eponine returned to the barricade but was accidentally shot. Marius asked her if she sent the letter to Cosette and she told him she gave it to her father. Marius suddenly noticed that she was shot. Eponine told her not to worry about her and just hold her close. This was really a very sad scene. The first time I watched this, I really felt bad for Eponine. And in the book, Eponine stated, "You know, Monsieur Marius, I believe I was a little in love with you." And then she died. Marius kissed her forehead and she was carried by the other students, saying that she was the first to die and she's going to be remembered and honored in the future.
Marius comforting Eponine
35. Night of Anguish
Valjean arrived at the barricades after reading Marius' letter. He realized that he is an important person in Cosette's life and he must try to save him. Enjolras was a little skeptical about him since they all just learned that Javert was also a spy. Valjean proved his alliance as he saved Enjolras from a sniper. In return, Valjean asked for Javert. He promised Enjolras he's going to be the one to kill him.
Enjolras trusting Valjean after he saved his life
36. The First Attack
When they were alone, Valjean freed Javert but Javert warned him that this will not end his pursuit for him. Valjean told him that freeing him has no conditions or bargains. Valjean fired some random place to make it look like he just killed Javert.
37. Drink With Me
As the students started to rest for the night, they remembered the memories they had. They thought about the fun times they shared and the girls that they've been with. Meanwhile, Marius thought about Cosette, wondering if she'd remember him if ever he dies.
The students drinking while reminiscing the past
38. Bring Him Home
Valjean realized that Marius was truly in love with Cosette. While Marius was sleeping, he prayed to God pleading to let Marius live even though it would cost his life. He thought about him as his own child and that he's still a young boy with a whole life ahead of him. This is a truly beautiful song.
Valjean praying to bring Marius home
39. Dawn of Anguish
In the morning, Enjolras told Marius that he will continue to fight even though some people won't.
40. The Second Attack (Death of Gavroche)
While Gavroche was singing in an attempt to gather ammunition, he was shot and died.
41. The Final Battle
The army tried to warn the students that they have no chance at all, but that doesn't stop Enjolras and the others. In this scene, Enjolras had a powerful line: "Let others rise to take our place until the earth is free!"Sadly, he died along with Grantaire and the others. Marius was shot but Valjean saved him and carried him away.
Enjolras waving the flag the last time
42. Dog Eats Dog (The Sewers)
Valjean escaped to the sewers, still carrying Marius with him. Thenardier, who was also on the sewers, stole Marius' ring while Valjean was taking a rest. Valjean carried Marius again to the exit but found Javert waiting for them. Valjean begged Javert for one hour to bring Marius to a doctor and amazingly, Javert agreed.
Thenardier stealing from Marius
43. Javert's Suicide
Javert can't believe that he just let go Valjean and was confused about his decisions. Unable to formulate a solution, he jumped from the bridge and committed suicide. I actually love Javert's character and having him die is really sad.
Javert looks down at the Seine river and jumps
44. Turning
So, let's go back to those poor dead students. The women mourned the deaths of the brave students who tried to fight back. I actually love this part. I know it's not that important, but at least the students did not remain forgotten.
The women mourning the dead students
45. Empty Chairs at Empty Tables
Marius got better from his wounds and he doesn't know it was Valjean who saved his life. He mourned the deaths of his friends. He expressed how sad he was that he's the only one alive. I really felt bad for Marius at this part. You just learned all of your friends died... Man, that sucks. At least he still has Cosette.
Eddie Redmayne as Marius in Empty Chairs at Empty Tables
46. Every Day
Cosette comforted Marius as he was still sad and hurt from the death of his friends. He also continued wondering who saved him from the barricades. Valjean gave them his blessing as he realized sooner or later he must let Cosette go.
Cosette assures Marius everything will be all right
47. Valjean's Confession
Seeing that Cosette and Marius are living happily, Valjean decided to leave the two of them. But before he left, he confessed to Marius who he really was and told him his past. He made Marius never to tell Cosette and Marius agreed.
48. Wedding Chorale
A few months later, Cosette and Marius got married. In their wedding reception, the Thenardiers (yeah, remember them? They're not yet gone) and Marius recognized them. Thenardier attempted to blackmail Marius stating that Valjean was a murderer and he caught him carrying a corpse in the sewers. Marius asked for a proof and Thenardier produced a ring. Marius recognized the ring because it was his. He realized that it was Valjean who saved him in the barricades and he and Cosette went to the convent where, as Thenardier told him, where Valjean was currently staying.
Marius and Cosette in their wedding
49. Beggars at the Feast
As Marius and Cosette left to look for Valjean, the Thenardiers began to enjoy the party and celebrate.
The Thenardiers celebrating
50. Epilogue
Valjean was in the convent, waiting for death to take his life. The spirit of Fantine came to him and thanked him for his wonderful job for bringing up her daughter. She also promised him that he would be with God. Cosette and Marius arrived. Marius thanked Valjean for saving his life and explained to Cosette that it was her father who saved him from the barricades. Valjean gave Cosette a letter where he wrote about his past and about her true mother, Fantine. As he was about to die, Fantine and Eponine's spirit came to guide him to Heaven. They are finally joined by the other spirits who died and sang the final song, Do You Hear The People Sing? (Reprise).
Eponine and Fantine guiding Valjean as Marius and Cosette weeps
The whole cast singing the reprise
So, there you have it! All the songs of Les Miserables. Wow, this took me a lot of hours to finish! Hope you learned something today. My next musical is going to be Wicked - one of Broadway's most loved musicals of all time. Stay tuned and have a good day! (or night. Whatever haha, I don't know where you are.)
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