Only a few of the songs stand nicely alone. These include Hugh Jackman's Who Am I, filled with the burning rage of the wrongfully charged fugitive Jean Valjean; Sacha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter's Master of the House, a jaunty number which the couple obviously had fun recording; and, of course, Anne Hathaway's I Dreamed A Dream, a mournful, intense song in which the actress give her all (and which is surely the reason for her Oscar).
Samantha Barks also gives a soaring, poignant rendition of On My Own, which breaks the heart.
Much has been said about Russell Crowe's stiff on-screen performance and inadequate singing ability. Without the visuals, his strained voice is even more noticeable.
As a musical lover, I would rather spend an extra hour watching the DVD for a more multi-dimensional performance. For those who want to immerse themselves in the Les Mis phenomenon on the go, this isn't a wholly worthless option.
YP Rating: 3/5