Movie Night: Les Misérables (1998)

Come experience a powerful film that speaks about the triumph of mercy, love, redemption and grace.

Event Details

  • Date: Friday, August 14, 2026
  • Time: 7:00 PM
  • Location: Parish Patio
  • Rain Location: Catacomb Café
  • Food: Fresh pizza will be served courtesy of our local favorite, Cowabunga!
  • Free-will offering for food and drinks.

About the Movie

Set against the dramatic backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables (1998) is a powerful film adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel. Directed by Bille August, the movie stars Liam Neeson as Jean Valjean, a reformed convict trying to build a new life, and Geoffrey Rush as Inspector Javert, the relentless lawman pursuing him. The film beautifully explores profound themes of redemption, love, sacrifice, and revolution.

  • Starring: Liam Neeson, Geoffrey Rush, Uma Thurman, and Claire Danes.
  • Rating: PG-13
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A Catholic Perspective on Les Misérables

From a Catholic theological viewpoint, Les Misérables is one of the most profound stories ever told about the tension between Law and Grace, and the transformative power of mercy.

 

  • The Triumph of Mercy over Law: The entire story hinges on an act of radical Christian charity. When Jean Valjean steals silver from the saintly Bishop Myriel, the bishop does not demand justice. Instead, he covers for Valjean, covers the sin with mercy, and “buys his soul for God” by gifting him two silver candlesticks. This mimics the divine economy of grace: Christ paying a debt we could never afford.
  • Legalism vs. Redemption: Inspector Javert represents a rigid, unforgiving legalism. To Javert, a sinner can never change, and the law must be executed without mercy. Jean Valjean represents the beauty of redemption. His life proves that through God’s grace, a person can truly become a “new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
  • The Face of Christ: The emotional core of the film is captured perfectly by Victor Hugo’s famous underlying message: “To love another person is to see the face of God.” Valjean’s selfless care for the dying Fantine and his lifelong protection of the orphaned Cosette show us what sacrificial, Christ-like love looks like in action.