Les Miserables: The Complete Mini-Series (1967)

The heroic tale of a man's life over three decades, set against the epic backdrop of France at a time of civil unrest, This acclaimed ten-episode adaptation of Victor Hugo s classic novel was first broadcast in black & white on the BBC in 1967. Les Misérables is the story of Jean Valjean (Frank Finlay), a former convict unable to escape the shadow of his past life who struggles to live through oppression, injustice and revolution. He tries to start afresh by adopting a new identity, but his future is threatened by a chance encounter with his former prison guard Javert (Anthony Bate), who pursues him ruthlessly. Meanwhile, Fantine (Michele Dotrice) a poverty-stricken woman abandoned by her rich lover, is driven to increasingly desperate measures to provide for her young daughter. Their stories collide and as revolutionary violence ignites on the streets of Paris, Jean Valjean begins an epic journey towards self-acceptance and redemption. This 1967 BBC production is directed by Alan Bridges, and written by Giles Cooper and Harry Green.