I have never read Victor Hugo's classic novel, Les Miserables, so my first (and only) exposure to the plot was via Focus on the Family's Radio Theatre presentation. Apparently, the novel itself is quite long, but the producers managed to condense it down while springing it to life on 3 audio CDs with a total play time of under 3 hours.
This is the second Radio Theatre presentation that I have been priviledged to review, and, just like the previous one, it exceeds my expectations. I am not distracted by poor quality audio or sound effects, rather, all of the noises heard flow together well and serve a purpose to setting the mood, scenery, or revealing action in the story line.
This is a tale of redemption, detailing how one man, a convict, was shown unmerited mercy and generosity by a stranger and it so touched him that he changed his entire way of living. The once-convict becomes more than a model citizen. He becomes charitable, noble, and humble. His past haunts him, however, and there are some who not only doubt his sincerity, but do not cease to interfere in his new life until he is behind bars. God seems to have an intricate plan which allows his endeavors of good will to continue regardless of outside forces.
Another strong theme is law vs. justice; the question as to whether or not justice sometimes requires mercy (whereas the law will not allow variation based on circumstance) is raised. It is a heartening performance that will inspire you to do what is right simply because it is right; do not base your actions on your own personal prospect for gain/loss.
The way I see it, there are only two down-sides/concerns:
1. The audio CDs come in one single jewel case which opens into sections. This is not uncommon for multiple disc sets, but I will mention that when I received my copy, one of the discs had come loose in the case and was rattling around. After a quick check of the surface area, I saw there were no scratches or visible damage, but it would be nice to have a more secure case since I will enjoy taking this with me on trips.
2. The back of the case states, "Not recommended for children under the age of 8." That is fair enough, but I always like to give more DETAIL when cautioning parents about content so they can make their own informed decision. So, here's the scoop! There is mention of crimes being committed, some mild threats here and there, but the language is nothing that worried me. The questionable content is: During one scene a child is killed in a conflict between police and revolutionists. It was not overly dramatic, and there was considerable foreshadowing and efforts to prevent/avoid/rescue the child. More dramatic in my opinion was a section of the audio drama which depicts one of the characters shooting himself during a moral dillema. The man is more or less a "bad guy" throughout the story, and the listener will hear him voicing concerned thoughts about the path for his life before hearing a gunshot and a splashing sound (intended to be his body hitting the water as we have been told he is near the river). Later in the story the man's suicide is brought up briefly, and there are accusations of murder. As a parent, I would strongly suggest that you listen to the complete CDs yourself before making your own decision. As for me, I am guessing I would probably find this suitable for my children ages 10+.
In the interest of full-disclosure, I received a copy of this product from Tyndale House Publishers for the purpose of review. I am not required to give a positive review, the opinions are mine.
This is the second Radio Theatre presentation that I have been priviledged to review, and, just like the previous one, it exceeds my expectations. I am not distracted by poor quality audio or sound effects, rather, all of the noises heard flow together well and serve a purpose to setting the mood, scenery, or revealing action in the story line.
This is a tale of redemption, detailing how one man, a convict, was shown unmerited mercy and generosity by a stranger and it so touched him that he changed his entire way of living. The once-convict becomes more than a model citizen. He becomes charitable, noble, and humble. His past haunts him, however, and there are some who not only doubt his sincerity, but do not cease to interfere in his new life until he is behind bars. God seems to have an intricate plan which allows his endeavors of good will to continue regardless of outside forces.
Another strong theme is law vs. justice; the question as to whether or not justice sometimes requires mercy (whereas the law will not allow variation based on circumstance) is raised. It is a heartening performance that will inspire you to do what is right simply because it is right; do not base your actions on your own personal prospect for gain/loss.
The way I see it, there are only two down-sides/concerns:
1. The audio CDs come in one single jewel case which opens into sections. This is not uncommon for multiple disc sets, but I will mention that when I received my copy, one of the discs had come loose in the case and was rattling around. After a quick check of the surface area, I saw there were no scratches or visible damage, but it would be nice to have a more secure case since I will enjoy taking this with me on trips.
2. The back of the case states, "Not recommended for children under the age of 8." That is fair enough, but I always like to give more DETAIL when cautioning parents about content so they can make their own informed decision. So, here's the scoop! There is mention of crimes being committed, some mild threats here and there, but the language is nothing that worried me. The questionable content is: During one scene a child is killed in a conflict between police and revolutionists. It was not overly dramatic, and there was considerable foreshadowing and efforts to prevent/avoid/rescue the child. More dramatic in my opinion was a section of the audio drama which depicts one of the characters shooting himself during a moral dillema. The man is more or less a "bad guy" throughout the story, and the listener will hear him voicing concerned thoughts about the path for his life before hearing a gunshot and a splashing sound (intended to be his body hitting the water as we have been told he is near the river). Later in the story the man's suicide is brought up briefly, and there are accusations of murder. As a parent, I would strongly suggest that you listen to the complete CDs yourself before making your own decision. As for me, I am guessing I would probably find this suitable for my children ages 10+.
In the interest of full-disclosure, I received a copy of this product from Tyndale House Publishers for the purpose of review. I am not required to give a positive review, the opinions are mine.
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