In this Hollywood adaptation of Victor Hugo's time-honored story, Jean Valjean (Michael Rennie), a victim of injustice, is doggedly hunted by Inspector Etienne Javert (Robert Newton). Valjean finally sees a glimpse of human compassion from the kindhearted Bishop Courbet (Edmund Gwenn), who helps him to overcome his troubled history. However, Valjean's past refuses to let go, as years later the relentless Javert closes in on his target once again.