Once in a while there comes a film that takes a genre and flips it on its head. In the spirit of the holidays, “Les Misérables” delivers such a gift. Director Tom Hooper, coming off his 2010 Oscar-winning masterpiece “The King’s Speech,” brings to life one of the most stunning and visually striking films of not only this year, but of this generation.

“Les Misérables” breaks new ground by making all of the performers sing live on-camera, which is a first for the genre. Hooper brings together a phenomenal cast that makes this story most memorable.

Hugh Jackman plays the lead as Jean Valjean, a man who embodies what it means to morally change from one way of life to another. The internationally known character is renowned for his compassion and love, and Jackman brings these traits and the multitude of intertwined touching aspects of this character together with near perfection.

While Jackman is somewhat of an underdog in his Golden Globe race, Anne Hathaway is at the forefront. After her strong performance as Catwoman in “The Dark Knight Rises,” Hathaway reaches deep into her acting skill set, bringing a whole new game to “Les Misérables.” The 30-year old actress plays Fantine, a woman who is pushed to the brink, trying to salvage any pride she has left to live for.

Fantine sings the solo “Dreamed a Dream” when she is at her lowest point, and Hathaway delivers the moving number flawlessly. The raw emotion and pure passion put forth makes for a goose-bump inducing five minutes.

With her performance as the high note, Hathaway leads Hooper and the rest of the cast in an award-worthy film.