Based on the novel by Victor Hugo. Les Miserables is the epic story of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict who was persecuted for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his starving family. While imprisoned, Valjean meets his future nemesis -- the fanatical Inspector Javert. After serving his time, Valjean attempts to forge a new life as a good citizen -- but the obsessive Javert can't let him go, and pursues Valjean throughout the years to come.