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Customer Reviews for Tyndale Entertainment Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Tyndale Entertainment Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Les Misirables has been called the most important novel of the 19th century. It's a tale of war and revolution, a touching love story, and a tale with some of the most memorable characters you'll find in any work of fiction. Most of all, it's a story about a desperate thief whose life is changed forever when a kind bishop, catching him in the act of stealing precious silver, forgives him. Accustomed to living only for himself, Jean Valjean becomes a kindhearted man who helps a dying woman, cares for her child as if she were his own...and puts his life on the line to help an innocent stranger.
Les Misirables tells of the triumph of good over evil, of love over hatred, and of mercy over the letter of the law. 169 Minutes. 3 CDs.
Les Misirables tells of the triumph of good over evil, of love over hatred, and of mercy over the letter of the law. 169 Minutes. 3 CDs.
Average Customer Rating:
(44 Reviews) 44
Rating Snapshot (44 reviews)
5 stars
37
4 stars
5
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 star
0
31 out of 3297%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Review 1 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Inspiring Entertainment
Date:April 20, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This audio adaptation is fascinating and a delight to hear. It was recorded in London and has a professional cast who did an incredible job.
The main character in the story is Jean Valjean. He is an ex-convict who cannot ever escape his past. No matter what he tries to do in life, he seems to be always hunted and accused, because he was once a prisoner. In the beginning, he meets with a kind couple whose hospitality and compassion help him make a new start in life. Eventually, he builds up a new reputation, under a new name, and has a tremendous influence for good in his community. His riches, and charity in life are amazing. But what is most precious, is his unselfish character and actions.
This is an epic story, highly inspiring and an excellent production. Listening to the story on audio CD was relaxing and a wonderful break from watching a movie on television. I highly recommend this radio theater presentation.
*Disclaimer - I received a copy of this product for review purposes.*
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Review 2 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Wonderful way for your family to enjoy the classic
Date:February 24, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Les Misérables (Radio Theatre)
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo brought to life by Focus Audio drama:
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo brought to life by Focus Audio drama:
After finishing this audio drama of Les Misérables, I am trying not to cry! I’m at my daughters’ dance class, so excuse me as I head to the bathroom to pull myself together...
Wow!
Les Misérables is a powerful story of one extraordinary kindness that changes an man, the angry exconvict Jean Valjean. He then lives his live with all it’s shocking twists and turns in forgiveness, extending grace to others. It is an amazing story to which I am drawn. So, having the chance to to review Focus’s audio drama of Les Misérable is a wonderful opportunity. My family already has some experience with Focus’ audio productions through Adventures in Odyssey (we are HUGE fan of AIO!!) and their audio production of Narnia (that was amazing!!).
And I was not disappointed in this production. It’s not an unabridged reading of the book, which isn’t a surprise. All dramatic productions of Les Misérables, whether radio, theatre, or screen, have had to condense for time. However, the heart of this beautiful story is full and clear. The actors were excellent and very convincing as their characters. The music was beautiful and perfectly added, not to distract but to add to the emotions of the story. Through the sound effects I was pulled even more into the action. The only thing I would change is that I wasn’t able to listen to it all in one sitting. I definitely would recommend that as much as possible. And that is what I plan to do -- re-listen to it without breaking it up.
What a wonderful way to introduce this classic to your family!
"To die is nothing, truly. The terrible thing is never to live." -Jean Valjean
I received this audio drama free from Tyndale House Publishers. It was not required that I give a positive review, but to solely express my own thoughts and opinions.
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Review 3 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Grace Spoken Through the Ages
Date:February 20, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
It has been an exciting Winter with the musical version of the Les Miserables coming to theaters on Christmas Day and a re-release of the radio drama done several years ago by Focus on the Family.
Though I had heard snippets of the radio drama in the past, I had never taken the opportunity to listen to the entire show. I found the story, as presented by Focus on the Family, drawing me in. Presented as about thirty 3 to 7 minute chapters on 3 CDs, the story moved along quite fast - with enough breaks to allow the listener to maintain his interest while moving through the three hour drama. Occasionally, the breaks between chapters cut through a speakers last syllable, but not so the word was entirely lost.
I began listening to this presentation on an Amtrak train between upstate New York and Atlanta, GA. My wife and I used a splitter with dual earphones - both listening simultaneously. She commented that it was hard for her to follow the story. Later, when I returned to the presentation alone, I found no such problem - enjoying the transition from chapter to chapter.
As always, the story is one of transformation and grace. These are lessons that are harder for some to learn than others - perhaps never learned by others. May Les Miserables, whether on paper, in the theater, on the radio, or via a CD, teach each of us that God can use us regardless of how broken and bitter we have become.
______________
This review is based on a free CD copy of this radio play provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.
______________
This review is based on a free CD copy of this radio play provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.
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Review 4 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Timeless story and amazing audio-drama!
Date:February 17, 2013
Jenna
Location:Canada
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
When I was kid, I was obsessed with the Adventures in Odyssey cassettes (yes, cassettes; not CDs, but cassette tapes!). My siblings and I would listen to them over and over again, in the car, while doing chores, or at night before bed. They were audio-dramas akin to watching a movie, except you had to paint the images in your own mind. The stories were always exciting, and you really became attached to all the characters.
Les Miserables brought back all those sweet memories of Adventures in Odyssey. Focus on the Family did a fabulous job in producing this story into radio drama - I absolutely loved it! All the actors’ voices were brilliant, and the sound effects effortlessly brought the scenes to life. And of course, the story itself is AMAZING. It’s a beautiful story of mercy, forgiveness, sacrifice, and love. If you haven’t listened to radio theatre before, this would be the perfect one to start with!
Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this audio-drama in return for an honest review.
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Review 5 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Beautifully done version of Les Mis
Date:February 4, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I first read Les Miserables in middle school, yes middle school – my mind wasn’t capable of handling the books that most of my peers were reading – I need large tomes to keep and garner my attention. I didn’t read the abridged version but the whole entire 1,000+ page book. I have taken in the movie version but haven’t been fortunate enough to take in a live show but not one to let that get me down – I now can bask in the audio drama version which has a lively full cast, excellent sound effects that rivaled even the movie and a musical score.
In the set you get 169 minutes on three CD’s and your attention will be held the entire time as you listen to this audio version of a timeless classic. I had no issues in keeping the voices separated while listening, although my oldest said she did however my 8 year old did not. Yes, I allowed my children to listen to the whole presentation – my 8 year old also wants me to read aloud the book! There was shock when the word prostitute was mentioned but it was to show how low Fantine had sunk in order to provide for Cosette. My children were saddened by the deaths and if I hadn’t been driving our van I would have been crying.
Les Miserables isn’t something one can read or listen too without a dry eye, unless you’re driving, as the emotions are as real as when Hugo wrote it the lessons of redemption, love, loss and forgiveness as well as despair and more are something that we all can relate too whether it’s the 1800′s or the 2000′s. Listening to this wonderful audio from Focus on the Family Radio Theatre will take you on a ride that will ultimately show what God is capable of doing, even if we can’t see His work.
**Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of the CD set from Tyndale Media Network in exchange for my honest review, no other compensation was given.
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Review 6 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Radio Theater for Family
Date:February 3, 2013
I am a huge fan of musicals and have been blessed to see Les Miserables on Broadway last year. It is one of my favorite musicals and I love the musical score. I was really excited when Tyndale offered me the chance to own Les Miserables Radio Theater Audio CD's. This audio CD tells a beautiful story of forgiveness centered around the life of Jean Valjeen, a convict whose life is changed by one single act of kindness. After serving 19 years in prison for the simple act of stealing bread, he is released but the public still views him as a bitter criminal and his imprisonment haunts him with every turn despite the clean and honorable life he now leads. Overall, the story does have very sad undertones but there are so many powerful lessons (mercy, forgiveness, injustice, love, hatred, etc.) to be learned through this story too.
Produced by Focus on the Family, this Radio Theater version of Les Miserables features 3 CD's and almost 3 hours of listening enjoyment. Recorded in London, England with some of England's finest actors, this audio recording of Les Miserables will be one your family will enjoy listening to time and time again. Our children (who are not used to radio theater) absolutely loved this recording and have listened to it in the car and at home. They keep it playing in the background while they play Lego's or color/draw. Despite the long recording, the actual story is still quite abridged but for younger children this is a great introduction to the story of Les Miserables. You can log on to Radio Theater for sound clips and more information on all their other Radio Theater recordings too!
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Review 7 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
This audio version is great- -not musical
Date:February 1, 2013
Linda Appleman
Location:GEORGIA
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
My daughter and friend saw the new movie release... her friend likes the book best, dtr likes the musical best... apparently some differences in pronumciation... wondering how they got a pronuciation standard from a BOOK! Ha HA! I have listened to the CD version from FOF several times and it awakens imagination, freeing me to catch more of those subtle and not so subtle values lessons. worth the listen!
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Review 8 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's fresh perspect
Date:January 28, 2013
Noelle the dreamer
Location:US
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Victor Hugo's masterpiece 'Les Miserables' has captivated countless generations with its dark tale of Christian love, atonement and forgiveness in spite of the cruel injustice of the legal system of the epoch.
Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's fresh perspective on the fascinating recount of one man's trials after 19 years of inhuman captivity brings to life the story of Jean Valjean, Javert and Fantine!
Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's fresh perspective on the fascinating recount of one man's trials after 19 years of inhuman captivity brings to life the story of Jean Valjean, Javert and Fantine!
There have been many movies made of this heartbreaking story of hardships and redemption set in tumultuous France 19th century but Radio Theatre gives yet again a remarkable approach to humanity's frailness in the face of adversity.
As some of you remember I had the opportunity to review another well known title from Focus on the Family Radio Theatre, Oliver Twist (see review HERE) and both offers a remarkable cast.
British finest talents such as actors Brian Blessed, Leo McKern and Geoffrey Palmer's are lending their voices to 'Les Miserables' in an unforgettable reenactment of the well known tale.
British finest talents such as actors Brian Blessed, Leo McKern and Geoffrey Palmer's are lending their voices to 'Les Miserables' in an unforgettable reenactment of the well known tale.
The culmination of the story of Jean Valjean hiding from his tumultuous past and Javert's oppressive hunt is the triumph of good over evil despite the many obstacles in his intended path.
It is important to add Radio Theatre's at times graphic details of life in Jean Valjean's era is absolutely stunning. There is little need of visual special Fx to imagine the poverty and degradation in that timeline period!
That said, Focus on the Family took pains in producing a story fitting for an audience of age 12 and over. Whilst some might argue specific elements have been removed for family concerns, the endeavour is to be applauded, particularly for its haunting musical score!
That said, Focus on the Family took pains in producing a story fitting for an audience of age 12 and over. Whilst some might argue specific elements have been removed for family concerns, the endeavour is to be applauded, particularly for its haunting musical score!
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Review 9 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
I loved it!
Date:January 26, 2013
Kianna Rose
Location:New York, NY
Age:Under 18
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Being a first time listener to Focus On The Family's Radio Theater, I didn't know what to expect for their rendition of Les Miserables. I've heard that Victor Hugo's novel and the recent movie was amazing and since I haven't been able to enjoy either, I hoped that this audio version would be equivalently amazing. It was!!!
Focus On The Family told this epic story in such a way that you have no problem imagining that you are sitting on the sidelines, watching as the story unfolds. The powerful sound effects give eyes to your ears and you become enamored with the "good" characters, even though you are only hearing their voices. Background sounds like horse hooves or gunfire could be heard as well, adding to the feeling of "being there."
Though I cannot give full credit to Focus On The Family for the story, plot and characters, because they were Victor Hugo's original work, I was moved by their take on Jean Valjean's life. I was so inspired to find that a simple act of kindness by Bishop Myriel of Digne was what God used to turn Jean's life around. It encourages me to show the light and love of Christ more often, even to the "least of these."
I highly recommend that you hear Focus On The Family's Radio Theater version of Les Miserables. Listeners become emotionally attached to Jean Valjean, Cosette and Marius. Listeners are taken on and emotional journey as well as spiritual journey toward learning to forgive. I'd rate this audio drama 5 out of 5 stars! I am eagerly awaiting another audio drama by Focus On The Family.
I received this audio drama from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
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Review 10 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
A Great Way To Hear This Story
Date:January 18, 2013
Always Alleluia
Location:Columbus, Ohio
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The story of Les Mis is rich and while some portions of the story may be difficult for younger listeners, I love that this version is accessible to a wider range of listeners than say, perhaps the film, or even the Broadway recording of the music. This particular radio version maintains more of Victor Hugo’s original story than the movie and play do, and the actors in this radio version are outstanding.
I plan to introduce my children to Les Miserables through this very radio theater version.
If you’ve been looking for a way to share this powerful redemption story with some younger people in your life, or if the grittiness of the musical version offends you, you will likely appreciate this. It has been a great pleasure to enjoy the story in a way I had not heard it done before.
I plan to introduce my children to Les Miserables through this very radio theater version.
If you’ve been looking for a way to share this powerful redemption story with some younger people in your life, or if the grittiness of the musical version offends you, you will likely appreciate this. It has been a great pleasure to enjoy the story in a way I had not heard it done before.
I received this product for free from Tyndale House publishers in exchange for my opinion. I was not required to give a favorable review–I enjoyed this immensely.
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Review 11 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Wonderful audio production of great story
Date:January 17, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I grew up in the era before television and when weekly night time serial dramas on the radio were highlights of the week. It was exciting to sit beside a radio listening to The Green Hornet, The Shadow, and Gangbusters. Exciting! Drama!
Listening to Les Misérables performed by Focus on the Family Radio Theatre brought back the "art of listening creatively." We are so accustomed today of seeing as well as hearing, that our attention actually is not fully engaged in the details of the sounds of footsteps, water splashing, doors shutting, banging, etc. In this superbly produced audio version of Les Misérables you are fully engaged. You have to mentally visualize the excitement, the pain, the intrigue, the doubt. There are no facial expressions or stage sets to aid in your understanding of the story. And what a story this is.....
The time frame is roughly that of 1815-1830 and the historical setting in France is that of the June Rebellion. The letter of the law was cruel and unjust in France during that time. And it is in that social environment that a young Jean Valjean is sent to prison for stealing a loaf of bread, and he is in prison for 19 years. The story examines law vs. justice and mercy or grace on a social standing. But it is also a story of redemption and examines social redemption as well as personal redemption through the grace of God.
I had heard of the story of Les Misérables but had never read the book nor seen a drama production of it. So I can not speak to the accuracy of the audio presentation by Focus on the Family Radio Theatre as it relates to Victor Hugo's book. I can, however, attest to the fine quality of this production, the sound effects, the dramatization of actors, the flow of the story from its beginning to its climax. I highly recommend this audio presentation to families. The only restraint I have is that parents listen to it first prior to having their children listen to best determine at what age they prefer to have their children listen to it. That period of French history was cruel and violent and this story presents the period well.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of Les Misérables by Tyndale Publishers on behalf of Focus on the Family Radio Theatre for the purpose of rending my honest opinion. There was no obligation to give a positive review.
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Review 12 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Outstanding rendering
Date:January 17, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This retelling of Victor Hugo’s classic, Les Miserables, is a must hear CD series!
This beautiful story follows the main character Jean Valjean and his life’s journey of injustice, forgiveness, compassion, and love. This listener was captivated with the beauty of the story and found myself transported in time to the period surrounding the French Revolt, and the life circumstances surrounding Hugo’s character, Jean Valjean.
The production is of the highest quality and rivals any medium in the telling of this story. I give my highest recommendation for the hearing of this beautiful classic produced by Focus on the Family. (rev. J. La Tour)
About the audio recording: The story that has thrilled millions comes to life in a brand new way in Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's Les Miserables. This audio drama beautifully portrays the redeeming power of forgiveness through the story of Jean Valjean, an embittered convict whose life is changed by a single act of kindness. Recorded in London with some of England's finest actors, it will mesmerize adults and families alike.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Focus on the Family's Radio Theatre audio recording of "Les Misérables" was provided in order that we might provide an honest review. Opinions expressed are those of the reviewer and there was no obligation to render a positive review.
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Review 13 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Great version of Les Miserables!
Date:January 17, 2013
IChooseJoy
Location:Illinois
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
One of the best stories ever written, Les Miserables by Victor Hugo, can be listened to in this exciting version from Focus on the Family Radio Theatre!
I love the story of Les Miserables and jumped at the chance to do this review! We listened to it in the car, and it held all my older kids and me entranced.
I wasn’t really sure how I’d like the Radio Theatre version (as opposed to the stage musical and movie), although I have enjoyed other Radio Theatre dramas. Well, this one didn’t disappoint. I give it 5 out of 5 stars! As I was driving down the road tears were running down my cheeks when it ended. Such a beautiful story of redemption, grace, and mercy. The acting is superb, and I even liked the soundtrack (although I love the music from the musical). I highly recommend this 3-CD set to all who love an exciting drama. There are some mature themes (mention of prostitute, a man commits suicide, a shooting scene related to the French Revolution where people are killed), so you may prefer to play it only for the older kids.
After listening to these CDs, my son found the book and started reading it! I tried a few years ago but didn’t get very far. Now, I’m inspired to try again!
( I received a complimentary copy of this CD-set from Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for this honest review.)
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Review 14 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Wonderful Dramatization of One of the Best Stories
Date:January 16, 2013
JayCee Dub
Location:San Jose, CA
Age:35-44
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I fell in love with the story of Les Miserables after seeing the play in 2012. I then discovered that we already have the Focus on the Family dramatization in our iTunes library, so I thought I'd give it a listen.
I love the fact that the dramatization included so much more of the story that had been left out of the play, not to mention that recording and acting/reading was so very well done.
On a recent ski trip, I made the students in the car listen to the drama. They fell in LOVE with the story.
The ending, where ValJean gave the candlesticks to Cossette.. it totally made me tear up. It still does, every time I hear it.
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Review 15 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Mercy Triumphs
Date:January 16, 2013
Focus on the Family's audio drama of Les Miserables promotes being true to Victor Hugo's original novel following the tale of Jean Valjean's encounter from savage injustice to the grace of God. Having absolutely no knowledge whatsoever regarding the story line for Les Miserables, I can not say whether the production itself was true to the novel. However, this production is well done infusing the heartaches of Jean Valjean as well as his triumph over bitterness to become the antithesis of his nemesis, Inspector Javert, a man so controlled by justice that mercy escapes him.
While this production gripped one's attention and provided various points of reflection and discussion, it did lack the essential factor of Jean Valjean's conversion--Jesus. His conversion seems to be more of a response to mercy shown to him rather than an encounter with Jesus. Where there is evidence of Jean Valjean's conversion through his life in overcoming evil with good, it would have been edifying to know the source--Jesus!
As a listener of Focus on the Family's Radio Theatre productions, I enjoyed listening and discussing the production at home but think that a clear mention of Jesus' work in Jean Valjean would serve as an introduction to a greater audience of unbelievers.
I received a complimentary copy of above mentioned title from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an independent and unbiased review.
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Review 16 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Date:January 11, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Les Misérables, a Focus on the Family Radio Theatre production based on Victor Hugo’s original novel, is amazing! This three CD audio series has a truly wonderful cast that brings the characters to life, complete with sound effects.
This is the story of Jean Valjean, a man who has spent nineteen years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread for his hungry family. Experiencing the injustice of the legal system firsthand, Valjean encounters the grace of God through a kindly priest. He then moves forward attempting to spread this grace to all he encounters. His tale is both heart-breaking and inspiring.
Even if you have read this classic story by Victor Hugo, you will want to listen to this series. It draws you in and holds your attention to the very end, leaving you wishing that your short drive was just a little longer so you could hear more of the story! I highly recommend this series.
Kara
I received this free from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review.
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Review 17 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Family Friendly "Les Miz"
Date:January 8, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Victor Hugo's classic book Les Miserables has always been popular, but this story of love, redemption, and forgiveness is once again in the headlines due to the release of the filmed version of the musical. Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's Les Miserables is a bit different from the onscreen version, but this is much more family-friendly. Brian Blessed, Geoffrey Palmer, and Leo McKern are some of the better known (to me anyway) actors who bring this story to life in a manner that is sure to capture the attention and imagination of the entire family.
I listened to this radio drama, saw the 2012 film currently in theaters, and watched the 25th anniversary musical version online. All 3 have their good points and their bad ones, but I would say that this radio drama holds its own with the others. I have only read summaries and abridged (children editions) of the story, so I honestly cannot say who stays closest to the original story. I suspect each had twists and tweaks to the vision of the one responsible for the making of each but each tell the story of forgiveness and mercy versus unforgiveness and legalism. Love, loyalty, and sacrifice are themes that reverberate throughout, and this would be an excellent introduction to children of a classic tale that remains relevant.
Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a free copy of this audio drama. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review, and all opinions are my own.
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Review 18 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Les Miserable Review (Focus on the Family Radio)
Date:January 8, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
"Les Miserables (Focus on the Family Radio Theater)" Review
I was so very excited when Tyndale offered "Les Miserables" (Focus on the Family Radio Theater) for review. Tyndale provides me the resource complimentary and I in turn agree to write a review. I have never officially read Victor Hugo's book, "Les Miserables", but I have seen the movie and most recently the movie musical of the book that was just released during Christmas, so I am familiar with the story of "Les Miserables". For this review I am really not going to go into details about the story itself as I figure most people are familiar with it. I too would let you know that this presentation was all story telling and not at all a musical (no songs).
I know this story has appeal to a vast audience, but as a Christian the redemption of Jean Valjean's life would be enough for me to watch and listen to the story over and over again. I am too saddened by Inspector Javert's determination not to accept and give mercy, but to die by the letter of the law. Ok, I did say I would not go too much into detail about the story so I will stop here and continue reviewing the resource I was given by Tyndale :)
Focus on the Family Radio Theater have several radio drama presentations, including "The Chronicles of Narnia" series. I listened to all of the Narnia series and was impressed with the quality of the audio CDS. So when offered the audio presentation of "Les Miserables" I didn't hesitate. The quality of sound of "Les Miserables" was perfect. I listened to all 3 cds in my car and I got lost in the story as I listened (don't worry not to lost that I didn't safely drive).
My favorite thing about the audio presentation was the acting itself. The story and characters felt believable and as far as a radio presentation goes I thought the acting was really good. Especially the actor that played the role of "Jean Valjean". Overall, I loved the audio presentation and felt the actors did a fine job, but I did get a bit distracted as in my mind some of the actors sounded "older" than what I pictured the characters to be. IE: The actress that played "Fantine" sounded like she was in her 30 to 40's and I pictured her being in her early twenties. Again, it didn't really take away from the story, but sometimes people picture characters the way they want or know them to be from the actual story.
In conclusion, I highly recommend purchasing this CD set from Focus on the Family. It would be a great resource for the family (use discretion with children because of mature subjects) to use while they are traveling in the car on vacation, or to use during a family story time as well. It is a timeless story that can be told over and over again and never get old.
Thank you Tyndale for giving me this resource.
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Review 19 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
Les Misérables, my review of Focus on the Family’s
Date:January 8, 2013
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I first read Les Misérables about 40 years ago in a college French class. It was the time of the Kent State riots – students vs. National Guard, (May 1970) and the next few years would see students in Paris revolting against the educational regime, so in a sense this was ‘life imitating art’. The ‘radicals’ among you will enjoy the fight for right, for equality, and the obvious struggles against the haves and the have-nots. There are differences of opinion between the establishment which makes the rules that maintain their elitist status, and those who fight each day to provide for their basic needs often giving up on following the laws in favor of doing what they need to do to feed their families. Our socio-economic conditions in the US today bear a startling resemblance: the very rich versus the very poor.
But this is also a story of two men: Inspector Javert whose life is spent adhering to the law, and Jean Valjean, a convict (His crime? He stole some bread to feed his sister’s starving children), paroled after 19 years in prison, who experiences grace and experiences a transformation that can only come of God – and he determines to be the instrument by which others can experience the same grace. And for the rest of his life he would pay. He makes difficult choices, choices that put his life in danger, but which are required if he is finally able to truly escape his past, rather than to perpetuate the lie that he is trying to escape.
Older now, and more mature in years and in my faith, I see this story as one of redemption, of grace, of God's love and His transforming powers. I still root for the underdog, but am not as quick to champion causes which involve violence and needless bloodshed. But this story paints a picture of the human condition, a world that wants to do for ourselves what only God can do, a fact that Javert finally realizes and tragically is unable to accept.
Although I love this classic French novel, and enjoyed listening to it as I drove around from one appointment to another, I cannot give this the rave review that I would like to. I frequently found myself driving distracted: not because I was so caught up in the story, which I was, but because of the sound. Most of the time I had the volume at ‘maximum’ in order to hear the dialogue, then the musical interludes would occur between the scenes: just like television commercials that are considerable louder than the programming. As I drove I had to lower the volume frequently to avoid being blasted out of the car, and then raise it again to be able to hear the story.
The story gets 5 stars, the audio gets 3, overall rating of 4.5stars.
I received a copy of this product from Tyndale House for the purpose of this review. They did not require a favorable review, only an honest one.
But this is also a story of two men: Inspector Javert whose life is spent adhering to the law, and Jean Valjean, a convict (His crime? He stole some bread to feed his sister’s starving children), paroled after 19 years in prison, who experiences grace and experiences a transformation that can only come of God – and he determines to be the instrument by which others can experience the same grace. And for the rest of his life he would pay. He makes difficult choices, choices that put his life in danger, but which are required if he is finally able to truly escape his past, rather than to perpetuate the lie that he is trying to escape.
Older now, and more mature in years and in my faith, I see this story as one of redemption, of grace, of God's love and His transforming powers. I still root for the underdog, but am not as quick to champion causes which involve violence and needless bloodshed. But this story paints a picture of the human condition, a world that wants to do for ourselves what only God can do, a fact that Javert finally realizes and tragically is unable to accept.
Although I love this classic French novel, and enjoyed listening to it as I drove around from one appointment to another, I cannot give this the rave review that I would like to. I frequently found myself driving distracted: not because I was so caught up in the story, which I was, but because of the sound. Most of the time I had the volume at ‘maximum’ in order to hear the dialogue, then the musical interludes would occur between the scenes: just like television commercials that are considerable louder than the programming. As I drove I had to lower the volume frequently to avoid being blasted out of the car, and then raise it again to be able to hear the story.
The story gets 5 stars, the audio gets 3, overall rating of 4.5stars.
I received a copy of this product from Tyndale House for the purpose of this review. They did not require a favorable review, only an honest one.
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Review 20 for Les Miserables - Focus on the Family Radio Theatre audiodrama on CD
Overall Rating:
introduce your family to a classic
Date:January 7, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Les Miserables is a classic that has been enjoyed by generations. The characters are unforgettable: the selfless Jean Valjean, obsessed Inspector Javert, and deceitful Thenardier. The themes Hugo portrayed through the characters are timeless: the savage injustice of the law, the lavish grace of God.
But at 1,000 pages, you may be wondering how you could introduce this masterpiece to your family. This Focus on the Family Radio Theatre® presentation is the answer. Dramatized, with the voices of some of Britain's finest actors, and appropriate sound effects, this book comes alive.
Granted, this audio production is less than three hours long, so you know you are going to miss the majority of the book. The essential pieces of the plot are included and one can easily follow the story. The historical background for the story has been left out, however.
It is great for family listening. You will be so intrigued by this production you will want to read the entire book yourself.
But at 1,000 pages, you may be wondering how you could introduce this masterpiece to your family. This Focus on the Family Radio Theatre® presentation is the answer. Dramatized, with the voices of some of Britain's finest actors, and appropriate sound effects, this book comes alive.
Granted, this audio production is less than three hours long, so you know you are going to miss the majority of the book. The essential pieces of the plot are included and one can easily follow the story. The historical background for the story has been left out, however.
It is great for family listening. You will be so intrigued by this production you will want to read the entire book yourself.
If you are going to listen to this production with your family, you may want to do some preparatory work. Some research on the era would help explain many of the actions in the story. Your children may ask about the revolution, the living conditions of the time, etc.
I really enjoyed this production. I'd read an abridged version of the book and found it interesting. But this audio presentation really brought the story alive. It has inspired me to patiently tackle the whole book.
I received a complimentary copy of this production from the publisher for the purpose of this review.
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