The enduring legacy of Les Misérables: A conversation with Amanda Seyfried and Eddie Redmayne
In the realm of cinematic adaptations, few productions have left as profound an impact as Tom Hooper’s Les Misérables. Released in 2012, this musical epic not only showcased the talents of its cast but also marked a pivotal moment in the careers of Amanda Seyfried and Eddie Redmayne. Both actors, who were on the cusp of stardom, faced the daunting challenge of performing live vocals in a project that demanded emotional depth and musical precision.
From rising stars to seasoned actors
Amanda Seyfried, known for her roles in Mean Girls and Mamma Mia!, and Eddie Redmayne, an Olivier and Tony award winner, stepped into the iconic roles of Cosette and Marius Pontmercy, respectively. Their journey through the production was not merely a professional endeavor; it was a dream realized for two self-proclaimed musical theater enthusiasts. Seyfried recalls, “We were all making the thing because we also knew that this was the one. They’re not going to make it for another 50 years.” This sentiment underscores the rarity and significance of their collaboration.
The challenges of live performance
Filming Les Misérables was a rigorous process, with both actors performing their songs repeatedly, often under intense emotional circumstances. Redmayne reflects on the experience, noting Seyfried’s remarkable ability to transition from joy to profound emotion seamlessly. “Your facility for joy and humor and vibrancy on set, followed by the switch into some of the rawest, most profound depths of emotion like that—it has to be witnessed to be believed,” he states. This dynamic not only highlights Seyfried’s talent but also the camaraderie that developed between the two, which was essential in navigating the film’s emotional landscape.
Life after Les Misérables
As both actors have continued to evolve in their careers, they have embraced roles that challenge their previous boundaries. Seyfried’s recent work in Long Bright River showcases her as a Philadelphia cop entangled in a web of familial darkness, while Redmayne’s portrayal of a British assassin in The Day of the Jackal marks a significant departure from his earlier roles. Each actor acknowledges the influence of parenthood on their career choices, with Seyfried stating, “I feel like it’s more interesting to talk about projects that you’ve chosen after you have kids, because life gets shorter and shorter.” This perspective reflects a maturity and depth that enriches their performances.
Reflections on their journey
During a recent conversation, Seyfried and Redmayne reminisced about their time on Les Misérables, sharing anecdotes that reveal the lighter side of their intense experience. From the challenges of singing amidst butterflies to the camaraderie of karaoke sessions, their shared memories highlight the joy and creativity that flourished despite the film’s heavy themes. Redmayne humorously recalls, “I spent hours with our military person going around corners, I literally looked like a sort of extra from a sort of Bond pastiche.” Such moments of levity serve as a reminder of the collaborative spirit that defines their artistic journeys.
As they continue to navigate their careers, both actors remain grateful for the foundational experience of Les Misérables. Their reflections not only celebrate the film’s legacy but also illuminate the personal growth and artistic evolution that has shaped their paths in the years since.
