(Image source: Wikia)

BY BRICE SANDER

Things are getting miserable in Hollywood.
Les Miserables - a new film adaptation of the Broadway favorite is set to hit the big screen -with some big names.

Anne Hathaway landed the role of Fantine based on her performance of “On My Own” at last year’s Oscars. She joins-

Hugh Jackman in the role of Jean ValJean-

And Russell Crowe as Inspector Javert.

While reaction to the casting’s been mixed, there are still plenty of roles to fill. And a BlackBook blogger says expect more big names to follow.

“Hathaway was long suspected to be the front-runner for the role, which adds some integrity to the rumors that Geoffrey Rush … and Emma Watson will also join the cast. Next winter will surely see a big Oscar season, especially for histrionic [fans].”

So could this be the biggest Broadway-turned-blockbuster ever? A SlashFilm contributor seems to think so-

“[Director Tom] Hooper’s The King’s Speech picked up several awards at the 2011 [Oscars] … Crowe has been nominated three times and won once (for Gladiator); and Hathaway has been nominated once.”

But others- like the Montreal Gazette- wonder if the studio is trying too hard.

“But let’s not rejoice too soon. It has taken 25 years for [the producers] to get this project going. And there is at least one sensible reason for that. Musicals are devilishly difficult to adapt to the screen.”

And a CinemaBlend blogger points out the story’s mixed history at the box office.

“Les Miserables has been adapted for the screen a half-dozen times, notably back in 1998 when Liam Neeson was in the role of Valjean. That version eschewed the singing side of things, so this new version should excite fans of the popular musical.”

Les Mis is set to hit the big screen in December 2012.