Frenchman Jean Valjean (Liam Neeson); imprisoned for stealing bread; is paroled after nearly two decades of hard labor. A gift of silver candlesticks from a kindly priest helps him begin anew. Forging a decent and profitable existence; he finds success as a businessman and as the mayor of a small town. He even takes in a pregnant young woman (Uma Thurman) and raises her daughter as his own. When a former prison guard (Geoffrey Rush) recognizes Valjean; his past catches up to him. Director Bille August culls mesmerizing performances from his cast; but loses us with an ending that panders to teen audiences. The focus shifts dramatically; and uncomfortably; from the haunted Neeson and his hawk-like pursuer; to his daughter (Claire Danes) and her romance with a handsome revolutionary. After this narrative shift; the script leaves behind the Victor Hugo classic's themes of revenge and redemption to focus improbably on teen angst--hardly what Hugo had on his mind. --Rochelle O'Gorman