Les Miserables Pt. 5

This clip contains some of the best songs in the show, including, "Red and Black" and "Do You Hear the People Sing?" My favorite though, is "Stars" because it once again illustrates the contrast between Jean Valjean and Javert, mercy and legalism. If you listen to the words of the song (or read the subtitles) you will see just how legalistic Javert is. He is self-righteous. Though he sings of falling from grace, he has no idea what grace really is.

The Bakcground: A street gang led by the Thénardiers prepares to ambush Valjean, whom Thénardier recognizes as the man who took Cosette. Éponine sees Marius, whom she secretly loves, and warns him to stay away, but Marius accidentally bumps into Cosette and immediately falls in love. Javert thwarts the Thénardiers' attempt to rob Valjean and Cosette, not recognising Valjean until after he escapes. Javert gazes at the night sky, comparing his hunt of Valjean and justice to the order of the stars. Meanwhile, Marius, although he does not know Cosette's name, persuades a reluctant Éponine to help him find her.

The scene then shifts to a political meeting in a small café where Enjolras leads a group of idealistic students to prepare for a revolution that they believe will materialise after General Lamarque's death. Marius arrives late and when Gavroche brings the news of the General's death, the students march into the streets.