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Post by jo on Oct 2, 2012 6:02:46 GMT -5
I love DO YOU HEAR THE PEOPLE SING because it personally resonates with me, re the recent political history of our people!
Tears streamed down my cheek the first time I saw Les Miserables ( Broadway, 1988) because it brought back memories of when our people went on a miraculous bloodless popular uprising about two years before I saw the stage musical. It was hailed by TIME magazine on its cover story as the People Power Revolution of the Philippines. I had been one of millions who went to a famous road artery where it all happened - and the sight of Enjolras waving the flag and asking the people to rise - that is so resonant!
Jo
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Post by jo on Oct 2, 2012 6:10:47 GMT -5
But the solo I am looking forward to the most is WHO AM I!
It is the song which describes the story and character of Jean Valjean most fittingly - his fall from grace, his redemption, and now the test of his character! It is also a great acting song and vocally-speaking, there are moments in the personal reflection by Valjean that will test the singer's ability to deliver that singular soliloquy!
Jo
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Post by jo on Oct 2, 2012 7:40:34 GMT -5
Rumors are rife that a second trailer will be released soon.
One film blogger talked of a trailer within the week...an older buzz was for a release on October 9. But this has now been updated to October 16, for "special reasons", whatever that means ( although I am guessing the Marketing department may be lining up a special event to accompany its release).
It will be 4 1/2 months since the first teaser/trailer was released!
I hope the new one will focus on the conflict themes --
*the contretemps between Valjean and Javert ( maybe The Confrontation?...or maybe a little of Who Am I and a little of Stars?)
*the uprising by the rebels against the regime ( Do You Hear the People Sing?)
*the romantic triangle among Marius, Cosette and Eponine ( A Heart Full of Love)
er... I forgot about the Thenardiers !
In my mind I am reserving One Day More for a possible third and final trailer!!
LOL - just guessing on all the above, of course ;D
Jo
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Post by carouselkathy on Oct 2, 2012 8:14:11 GMT -5
Jo,
All of those moments would be great, but part of me doesn't want too much given away in the trailers. When I was a very young child, I used to say, "Little hearts can't wait!" when I anticipated a major event. In this case, however, the grown up "me" is torn. I do want to wait for that amazingly anticipated first view of the entire Les Mis.
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Post by jo on Oct 2, 2012 8:26:06 GMT -5
It is almost heartbreaking when one reads that Hugh is not so seriously considered in Oscar prediction sites these days because not much is seen or heard of him other than that extended look video where he sang a bit of Valjean's Soliloquy ( and people started gossiping that the keys were changed to accomodate his range >  )...He may figure in the top 5 but always at the tailend or among a group of about 3-4 jostling for the 5th nomination slot when the Valjean role could be a forerunner movie role! Some prominent forecasters like Scott Feinberg (The Hollywood Reporter), GoldDerby, and Brad Brevet do not even put him in the top 5 but only among the also-rans. Russell Crowe is falling out of many predictions and people are not aware of his role in the movie, as not one note ( not even a "do") has been heard from him! These forecasters may not be AMPAS members, but their opinions can hold sway with voters if widely disseminated. People have to know about the movie! And all about the key themes and characters! Not just for artistic but also for commercial reasons. This is going to be a 2 1/2 ( more or less) sung-through movie -- what are a few songs to tease the public  ..And I hope the AMPAS members ( numbering close to 6000) do wait to see the performances from the movie and have time to ponder over them before they cast their vote. Sadly, they have advanced the announcement of nominations by another 5 days (now Jan 10), which means the voters have to send in their choices earlier. Jo |
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Post by birchie on Oct 2, 2012 10:19:40 GMT -5
It is almost heartbreaking when one reads that Hugh is not so seriously considered in Oscar prediction sites these days because not much is seen or heard of him other than that extended look video where he sang a bit of Valjean's Soliloquy ( and people started gossiping that the keys were changed to accomodate his range > )...He may figure in the top 5 but always at the tailend or among a group of about 3-4 jostling for the 5th nomination slot when the Valjean role could be a forerunner movie role! Some prominent forecasters like Scott Feinberg (The Hollywood Reporter), GoldDerby, and Brad Brevet do not even put him in the top 5 but only among the also-rans. Russell Crowe is falling out of many predictions and people are not aware of his role in the movie, as not one note ( not even a "do") has been heard from him! These forecasters may not be AMPAS members, but their opinions can hold sway with voters if widely disseminated. People have to know about the movie! And all about the key themes and characters! Not just for artistic but also for commercial reasons. This is going to be a 2 1/2 ( more or less) sung-through movie -- what are a few songs to tease the public ..And I hope the AMPAS members ( numbering close to 6000) do wait to see the performances from the movie and have time to ponder over them before they cast their vote. Sadly, they have advanced the announcement of nominations by another 5 days (now Jan 10), which means the voters have to send in their choices earlier. Jo I find all the Oscar speculation stuff so annoying! Not to mention the "key change" discussions! :-/   Really people are so banal! With all the performances that have been done around the world in the last almost 30 years...probably thousands...do they seriously think anyone with half a brain would believe that the key has never been changed? It was changed right from the beginning since it was written for a baritone and then changed to accommodate the voice of Colm Wilkinson. I find it amusing when I watch the 25th Anniversary Concert. At the end when they do the 4 Valjeans, there is an obvious key change right in the middle of that to accommodate one of the 4 singers, then the key changes back and they finish in harmony, so one key works for all in that part. Anyway, people are ridiculous and try to create conflict where none should exist! (very un-JeanValjean like) Which brings me to the most annoying part... That makes me have zero respect for the Academy voters if they could be swayed by blog writers before they have even seen the completed films. I know of one voter with enough integrity that he would never do that...I'm sure you know who...but really, what does that say about the integrity of the Academy Awards? Okay, I'm through ranting! Sue |
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Post by jo on Oct 2, 2012 10:45:50 GMT -5
I guess you have heard about the effect of Harvey Weinstein's Oscar campaigns The King's Speech, Tom Hooper's Oscar, The Artist, Jean Jujardin, even Meryl's win for the Thatcher role - people have rolled their eyes because of Weinstein's strong push for them. Which leads me to believe that the AMPAS members can be easily swayed. Now the Weinstein "campaign" is on for The Master and Joaquin Phoenix /Philip Seymour Hoffman and Silver Linings Playbook and maybe Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence! There is one poster on the LesMis IMDB who said his folks are both AMPAS and BAFTA members. He said he even fills up their ballots for them occasionally. This year he says he is leaning towards Les Miserables and was beginning to be convinced that Hugh could be a better choice versus Joaquin ( although he says Joaquin was initially his prediction). What I found interesting in his post is his saying "that Universal is quite weak when it comes to Oscar campaigns, unlike Harvey Weinstein, Sony and Warner" The new rules which have advanced the dates of announcing the nominations are meant to shorten the period of the campaigns, according to film bloggers! Why should they do that, if these campaigns are not perceived as unfair ?? One problem on why opinion blogs (aka Oscar prediction sites) can influence voters is the fact that there are theoretically too many movies to see, especially those released closer to deadlines. With the earlier deadlines for the Oscars now, there is even more pressure to make their choices earlier. What is to prevent some of them from relying on these forecasters's opinions to some extent, to facilitate their analysis and decision-making?? All I have mentioned in the previous post is to do the campaigning the legitimate way -- through trailers, through other publicity pushes, through advance screenings or screeners, etc! Not via the so-called parties to advance the interest of Harvey's candidates. I am not saying that this kind of campaigning is limited to Weinstein, but he has the most notorious reputation along these lines. With stronger marketing from Universal ( including FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION ads) maybe that would even up the odds somewhat Jo |
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Post by Jamie on Oct 2, 2012 12:08:56 GMT -5
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Post by jo on Oct 2, 2012 12:18:40 GMT -5
Thanks! Sasha was not initially impressed with Les Miserables but it looks like that after seeing the extended look video, it seems that she has been fair enough to say that Les Miserables looks like a winner! Sasha is a she -- I made the same mistake initially until a friend told me...plus I have listened to a podcast with her and someone else. I agree about having patience -- what is ironic is that the Oscar nominations will be announced before I get to see the movie ( Our country release date is January 16)! I hope the nods will make me anticipate it even more Jo |
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Post by birchie on Oct 2, 2012 13:37:48 GMT -5
I know I shouldn't let these things get to me but, what can I say, they do! I can remember back when it was considered unusual and bad form to place one of those full page ads to solicit Oscar votes. Now, anything goes. You're right Jo, Weinstein is the biggest offender.
I dislike Joaquin Phoenix and I also think of him as a "one note" actor and very over rated. Not to mention, nuts. As for PSH, he's become very arrogant and full of himself. I also don't like the subject of The Master so I hope it doesn't get as much attention as Harvey would like.
I hope the next trailer will be full length and feature some meaty stuff from Hugh. He needs to start getting some attention soon. He is over due for the recognition he deserves and I'm not the least bit prejudiced in that statement. Talent is talent and you don't have to be a devoted fan to see that.
Patience has never been my strong suit! Sue
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Post by chessie on Oct 2, 2012 15:40:25 GMT -5
On the CBS Sunday Morning show, Bill Whitaker did a fall movie preview piece based on the comments of Kenneth Turan, film critic for the L.A. Times. His take on Les Mis: There's also a big-screen version of the Broadway hit, "Les Miserables," with major star power: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway. "Everyone's crossing their fingers, you know, that they haven't screwed it up<" said Turan. That comment irritated the heck out of me. ..."they haven't screwed it up?" Way to build high expectations, right? > Carol |
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Post by jo on Oct 2, 2012 17:45:20 GMT -5
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Post by nevaeh777 on Oct 2, 2012 19:01:55 GMT -5
I have to totally agree with Mr. Reed concerning THE MASTER. I saw it last week with a friend of mine, and I agree completely with her words when we exited the theater,
"Joaquin Phoenix owes me the past two and a half hours of my life back!" It was a disturbing film, that's for sure. He definitely played a wack job who struggled with alcoholism and sexual issues. You can't help feeling creeped out by him throughout the entire film. What I found in this film too, is that you just don't care about the character of Freddy Quell, nor any of the other characters for that matter. I will not be surprised though, if PSH gets nominated for Best Support.
Amanda (my best friend) and I LOVE going to the movies and we try to see as many films as possible that might be considered for Oscars. It makes Oscar night more exciting when you've seen the films and know who you're personally cheering for. I cannot wait for LES MIS! I wish it was one of these films coming out sooner though! In the mean time I would like to check out the others that may be contenders. This way I know what LES MIS is up against. I don't like making any assumptions or critiques unless I've actually seen a film, so as each one of these movies surface I will do my best to go and check them out. Next week will probably be ARGO.
I have to admit though, that regarding this years Oscar ceremony, I will probably be cheering for LES MIS in every category it's entered in! ;D ;D ;D
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Post by Jamie on Oct 2, 2012 19:35:10 GMT -5
I feel the same about The Master. I don't mind "disturbing" films as long as the characters provide food for thought or interest, the acting is stellar, and the script serves the entirety of the film. The Master was a major fail for me. I simply didn't give a hoot about any of the characters, the sexuality felt gratuitous (let's see if this shocks you) and Phoenix who is getting all the praise just felt one note.
Saw a trailer for "Flight" - It came across as a good, solid made for TV or HBO movie but not a great film. Life of Pi looks interesting but 3D gives trouble to anyone with eye problems.
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Post by nevaeh777 on Oct 2, 2012 20:25:40 GMT -5
I don't mind "disturbing" films as long as the characters provide food for thought or interest, the acting is stellar, and the script serves the entirety of the film. Totally agree with you Jamie! |
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Post by jo on Oct 5, 2012 9:45:44 GMT -5
 Very gritty image of Jean Valjean - is he even singing? Jo |
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Post by mamaleh on Oct 5, 2012 10:18:12 GMT -5
He'd better watch out for a mouthful of bilge water, LOL.
Ellen
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Post by Jamie on Oct 5, 2012 12:39:15 GMT -5
At the stage of the convicts on the ropes, they would be singing "Look Down" with alternating solo phrases among the men.
The picture of the extras sitting wrapped in warmers beside the port area where it was shot gave you a real idea of the "glamor" of making a film. They were all freezing to death and about to get even wetter and colder.
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Post by jo on Oct 5, 2012 18:17:04 GMT -5
That scene at the dockyards, with the convicts, is going to make a stunning opening scene of the movie!
There was also a photo still of Javert ( wearing a long blue coat) which has been guessed by a few to belong to that scene, too - he interjects during the convicts singing to announce that Valjean has received a parole and Valjean sings for the firs time.
That whole spectacular scene will set the tone for the storyline about the continuing conflict between Valjean and Javert!
Jo
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Post by jo on Oct 5, 2012 20:27:35 GMT -5
Someone has had a twitter exchange with "Javert" JOJ Fans @jojfans1
@russellcrowe I cannot wait to hear you sing "The Confrontation"
Russell Crowe @russellcrowe
@jojfans1 Mate, I know it won't be what you might expect, but I believe I can safely say it will be a "Confrontation" The Confrontation is one of the most anticipated scenes in the musical! There is the famous duet, in different vocal ranges ( although we do not know if Hugh willl sing it in the tenor-ish range)...and after that there was a physical confrontation between the two, won by the " stronger man than you"! I wonder what Russell is referring to as " it won't be what you might expect..."?? He did joke about sword-fighting in his tweet while filming ;D I do wish they would show part of this scene when the second trailer arrives, if it ever does Jo |
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Post by Jamie on Oct 5, 2012 21:43:21 GMT -5
We do know that there is quite a fight because of Hugh saying that Crowe told him to really hit him that he could take it because of being a footballer, but after about five takes Crowe said that's enough. Even with that Hugh said Crowe could take him in a real fight.
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Post by jo on Oct 5, 2012 22:10:18 GMT -5
You mean " no swords" ;D Both are probably athletes in real life ( at least rugby league players) - so this could be a real bruising scene ( not just singing-wise) and would appeal probably more to general movie-going audiences. LOL - Hooper does believe in realism! Jo |
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Post by jo on Oct 6, 2012 1:45:12 GMT -5
Jen, who used to post on our old board, has shared this photo of the Les Miserables poster that she has taken at the AMC-Lincoln Sq Cinema Complex on W 68th St in NYC ( where I saw AUSTRALIA ) on the SHH board --  The movie is coming ;D ;D ;D And thanks to Jen! Jo |
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Post by jo on Oct 6, 2012 2:22:36 GMT -5
Personally, while this poster has an evocative and almost quaint appeal, I do wish that a more action-oriented and character-oriented poster would be posted on cinema lobbies if they do want to attract the attention of movie audiences in general ( who may not be familiar with Les Miserables, or are non-musicals lovers in general).
Also, what's with the tiny listing of the cast?? They do have an A-Lister cast they can be proud of ( and I think they should also mention well-known actors like Helena and Sacha) and their names can hardly be read!
I hope the above is just one of many posters that will be used to promote the movie! I do remember one fan-made poster which shows Valjean and Javert on either side and an action-oriented image of the rebels in the middle, with all the flag-waving! That one captured the storytelling and characters of the novel and the musical very well - and is quite an appealing poster for the movie version! Victor Hugo may have used the Bayard illustration for the image of Cosette but that is just one of the images used in the book. True, the stage musical latched on to that iconic image -- but this is the movie version and it is not focused on simply telling the story of little Cosette! It is after all a story of faith, redemption, love, and idealism!
End of my little bit of rant ;D
Jo
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Post by birchie on Oct 6, 2012 10:31:02 GMT -5
Personally, while this poster has an evocative and almost quaint appeal, I do wish that a more action-oriented and character-oriented poster would be posted on cinema lobbies if they do want to attract the attention of movie audiences in general ( who may not be familiar with Les Miserables, or are non-musicals lovers in general). Also, what's with the tiny listing of the cast?? They do have an A-Lister cast they can be proud of ( and I think they should also mention well-known actors like Helena and Sacha) and their names can hardly be read! I hope the above is just one of many posters that will be used to promote the movie! I do remember one fan-made poster which shows Valjean and Javert on either side and an action-oriented image of the rebels in the middle, with all the flag-waving! That one captured the storytelling and characters of the novel and the musical very well - and is quite an appealing poster for the movie version! Victor Hugo may have used the Bayard illustration for the image of Cosette but that is just one of the images used in the book. True, the stage musical latched on to that iconic image -- but this is the movie version and it is not focused on simply telling the story of little Cosette! It is after all a story of faith, redemption, love, and idealism! End of my little bit of rant ;D Jo I had a thought on that Jo, maybe they are using the 'live' Cosette as the first of several posters to come. Since everyone is so familiar with the 'drawn' Cosette from years of seeing it whenever the musical it written about. They may have wanted to slowly acclimate folks to the idea of the live action posters by starting with this one. I also love that fan-made poster and hope we see something similar in the future. |
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)...He may figure in the top 5 but always at the tailend or among a group of about 3-4 jostling for the 5th nomination slot when the Valjean role could be a forerunner movie role! Some prominent forecasters like Scott Feinberg (The Hollywood Reporter), GoldDerby, and Brad Brevet do not even put him in the top 5 but only among the also-rans. Russell Crowe is falling out of many predictions and people are not aware of his role in the movie, as not one note ( not even a "do") has been heard from him! These forecasters may not be AMPAS members, but their opinions can hold sway with voters if widely disseminated.
..And I hope the AMPAS members ( numbering close to 6000) do wait to see the performances from the movie and have time to ponder over them before they cast their vote. Sadly, they have advanced the announcement of nominations by another 5 days (now Jan 10), which means the voters have to send in their choices earlier.
