As in the original novel, the story line follows the adult life of Jean Valjean (Liam Neeson), an ex-convict (paroled following 19 years of hard labor, for stealing bread) pursued by police Inspector Javert (Geoffrey Rush). Liam Neeson stars as the heroic Valjean, an ex-convict who rises against all odds from galley slave to mayor. Uma Thurman is Fantine, the vulnerable prostitute who begs Valjean to raise her only child, Cosette (Claire Danes). Geoffrey Rush is Javert, the fanatical police inspector who dedicates his life to recapturing Valjean. A compelling and powerful human drama.