Studiocanal just dropped the first look at its massive new take on one of literature’s most beloved stories. The studio unveiled the teaser for its upcoming Les Misérables adaptation starring Vincent Lindon and Tahar Rahim.

What to know about the new Les Misérables movie and its first trailer

Studiocanal released the first teaser for Les Misérables, Fred Cavayé’s sweeping adaptation of Victor Hugo’s iconic 1862 novel. Vincent Lindon leads the cast as Jean Valjean alongside Tahar Rahim as Inspector Javert. The studio unveiled the footage on its social media channels on July 2.

The teaser notably highlights sprawling period sets and aerial shots of 19th-century Paris filled with chaos. Instead of musical numbers, it trades them for prison sequences, sword battles, and smoke-filled revolutionary scenes. Meanwhile, a young Jean Valjean appears enduring harsh imprisonment before the story leaps ahead in time.

Additionally, Noémie Merlant takes on the role of Fantine in the star-studded French ensemble. Camille Cottin and Benjamin Lavernhe play the scheming Thénardiers, with Vassili Schneider as Marius. Megan Northam, Marie Colomb, and Louis Peres also round out the supporting cast.

Furthermore, Cavayé channels a raw, physical filmmaking style that prioritizes historical realism and political turmoil. Producer Dimitri Rassam has noted that audiences rarely encounter Hugo’s original text adapted faithfully onscreen. The project reportedly cost more than $40 million, ranking among the most expensive French-language films ever produced.

Studiocanal’s sales division said the movie will “benefit from the very well established audience of the musical while offering a new, realistic interpretation, with a stellar French cast that is attractive for international audiences.” Separately, Tahar Rahim compared this version to The Fugitive during a conversation at the Marrakech Film Festival. The adaptation has already secured presales across major international territories.

Les Misérables arrives in French cinemas on October 14 as a marquee release. France aims to reclaim ownership of Hugo’s masterpiece after the beloved stage musical shaped global perceptions for decades.