New Les Misérables Movie Trailer Unveils a Sweeping, Non-Musical French Epic
Director Fred Cavayé’s adaptation stars Vincent Lindon as Jean Valjean and Tahar Rahim as Inspector Javert, arriving in French theaters in October 2026.

- ▸A new French film adaptation of the classic Victor Hugo novel.
- ▸Vincent Lindon stars as the iconic Jean Valjean.
- ▸A non-musical, dramatic take directed by Fred Cavayé.
- ▸Scheduled for release in France in October 2026.
“After enduring 19 years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread, Jean Valjean (award-winning actor Vincent Lindon) emerges a hardened man. He seeks redemption by reinventing himself as a respected dignitary under a new identity. He promises Fantine, a dying factory worker, to rescue and protect her daughter Cosette, who is being exploited & mistreated by the deceitful Thénardier family. As Valjean raises Cosette as his own, he is relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert. Admist the social unrest shaking France, the fates of Valjean, Cosette, her lover Marius, and Javert become intertwined in a turbulent, revolutionary Paris. Through struggles, sacrifices, and a deep yearning for justice, Valjean strives to complete his own journey of redemption and offer Cosette a future of love and freedom.”
- 1Cast — Vincent Lindon as Jean Valjean, Tahar Rahim as Javert, and a supporting cast including Camille Cottin and Noémie Merlant.
- 2Plot — Follows Jean Valjean's quest for redemption and his flight from Inspector Javert amidst revolutionary Paris.
- 3Genre — A sweeping historical period drama, not a musical.
- Director
- Fred Cavayé
- Starring
- Vincent Lindon, Tahar Rahim, Camille Cottin
- Release
- 2026
- Genre
- History, Drama
The first teaser for a new French adaptation of Victor Hugo's Les Misérables has arrived, promising a powerful, non-musical take on the classic novel. According to GeekTyrant, the trailer previews an epic historical drama directed by Fred Cavayé, set to open in French theaters on October 14, 2026.
What is this new adaptation about?
This version is not another musical. Instead, it tells Hugo's story as a sweeping period drama centered on redemption, justice, sacrifice, and revolution. The official synopsis details the journey of Jean Valjean, who emerges from a 19-year prison sentence a hardened man. He seeks redemption by reinventing himself, promising a dying woman to rescue her daughter, Cosette, all while being relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert. Their fates intertwine amidst the social unrest of a turbulent, revolutionary Paris.
Who is in the cast?
Vincent Lindon, an award-winning actor, leads the film as Jean Valjean. He is joined by Tahar Rahim, who takes on the role of the dogged Inspector Javert. The supporting cast includes Camille Cottin as Madame Thénardier, Benjamin Lavernhe as Thénardier, Noémie Merlant as Fantine, and Megan Northam as Cosette.
When does it come out?
The film is scheduled for a release in French theaters on October 14, 2026. As of July 2026, a release date for the United States has not been announced. The project is produced by Studiocanal, with Cavayé writing and directing the adaptation of Hugo's landmark 1862 novel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this new Les Misérables movie a musical?
No, this adaptation is not a musical. Director Fred Cavayé is presenting Victor Hugo's story as a sweeping historical drama, focusing on its themes of redemption and revolution without musical numbers.
Who is playing Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert?
Vincent Lindon stars as Jean Valjean, and Tahar Rahim plays the role of Inspector Javert, the police officer who relentlessly pursues him.
When will the new Les Misérables movie be released in the US?
As of July 2026, a release date for the United States has not been announced. The film is currently scheduled to open in French theaters on October 14, 2026.
Who is directing the new Les Misérables film?
The film is written and directed by French filmmaker Fred Cavayé, whose previous credits include Anything for Her, Point Blank, and Farewell Mr. Haffmann.
More from The Screen Report

Chris Evans Reveals Marvel Pitched a Dozen Captain America Returns Before Doomsday
The star says Robert Downey Jr.'s comeback and Joe Russo's vision convinced him to finally reprise his role as Steve Rogers.

‘Transformers: The Movie’ Returns to Theaters in 4K This September with New Post-Credits Scene
The 1986 animated classic hits theaters on September 17 with an exclusive new sequence, part of Hasbro's 'Apology Tour' for Optimus Prime's death.

Dungeons & Dragons Sequel Script Exists, But Director Doubts It Will Ever Be Made
Co-director Jonathan Goldstein revealed at Comic-Con that a sequel script is finished, but financial hurdles from the first film's box office make its future uncertain.

Resident Evil Director Zach Cregger Defends Creative Liberties for 2026 Adaptation
The 'Weapons' director explains why his film is set in modern times with snow, not directly adapting the 1998 video game's setting.