In post-revolutionary France, Jean Valjean is paroled after serving 19 years in prison for stealing bread. Unable to find work as an ex-convict, he steals silver from a church. When he is caught and brought back, the bishop forgives him, instructing Valjean to use the silver to begin a new life. After breaking parole to do so, nine years later Valjean is a wealthy industrialist and mayor. This success comes at high price-- he is hunted by ruthless policeman Javert, his former prison guard. When Valjean comes across a woman being arrested by his old nemesis Javert, Valjean intervenes, risking discovery. When Valjean learns that the woman, Fantine, turned to prostitution after losing her position at his factory because she has a child, he befriends Fantine, even agreeing to care for her daughter, Cosette. The decision changes their lives forever.