Papillon Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A wrongly convicted man with a butterfly tattoo makes friends with a counterfeiter in prison and really, really wants to leave, even if it involves coconuts.

🍿 Papillon: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Wrongful Conviction and Initial Imprisonment

Henri ‘Papillon’ Charrière, a safecracker in 1930s Paris, is wrongly convicted of murder. Despite his pleas of innocence, he’s sentenced to life in a French Guiana penal colony. Determined to escape, Papillon quickly realizes the brutal reality of prison life, filled with violence and despair. He knows he needs resources and allies if he’s to have any chance of regaining his freedom.

The Alliance with Louis Dega

On the journey to the penal colony, Papillon meets Louis Dega, a wealthy counterfeiter. Dega is physically weaker and needs protection from other inmates who know about his hidden money. Papillon offers Dega protection in exchange for financing his escape, forming an unlikely but essential partnership. This alliance becomes the cornerstone of their survival and escape attempts.

First Escape Attempt and Solitary Confinement

Papillon and Dega plan their first escape, but it’s thwarted when their contact betrays them. Papillon takes the blame to protect Dega, resulting in a harsh sentence of solitary confinement. During this period, he endures starvation and sensory deprivation, testing his resilience and sanity. This confinement hardens his resolve and solidifies his commitment to freedom.

Second Escape and Recapture

After years in solitary, Papillon reunites with Dega and plans another escape with other inmates. Their daring plan involves drugging guards and breaking through the prison gates. The escape is initially successful, but Dega is injured, and they are eventually captured by authorities on a Colombian island. Maturette is killed during their recapture. This failure leads to harsher punishments and a deeper understanding of the system’s cruelty.

Devil’s Island

Papillon is sent to Devil’s Island, a prison from which escape is deemed impossible. Years pass, and Papillon observes the relentless waves crashing against the cliffs. One day, he sees an opportunity to use the waves to his advantage. Dega, now resigned to his fate, helps Papillon build a makeshift raft from coconuts.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Henri Charrière (‘Papillon’) (Charlie Hunnam): A Parisian safecracker, wrongly convicted of murder, who relentlessly seeks freedom from the brutal penal colony on Devil’s Island.
• Louis Dega (Rami Malek): A quirky, convicted counterfeiter who forms an unlikely alliance with Papillon, providing financial support for their escape attempts in exchange for protection.
• Nennete (Eve Hewson): Papillon’s girlfriend who supports him initially but is later told to move on with her life while he is imprisoned.
• Julot (Michael Socha): A fellow inmate who informs Papillon of Louis Dega’s wealth and attempts an early escape, which leads to his execution.
• Commandant (Nicholas Asbury): The stern and unforgiving head of the penal colony who enforces the strict rules and punishments.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Papillon: “I’m still here, you bastards!” – Papillon shouts defiantly as he jumps from the cliff into the ocean, making his final escape attempt from Devil’s Island.
• Warden Barrot: “Do you think a person knows when he’s going mad? Or do you think it’s blissful ignorance?” – The warden poses this philosophical question, reflecting on the mental toll of imprisonment.
• Papillon: “I’m not afraid to die. I’m afraid I haven’t lived.” – Papillon explains to Dega his motivation for escaping.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $7,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $2,335,896
• Worldwide Gross: $10,060,903

💥 Papillon Reviews

Personal Review

I went in not expecting much since remakes are often disappointing. But, wow, Charlie Hunnam and Rami Malek were fantastic! The scenes in solitary confinement were brutal. I really felt Papillon’s desperation and unbreakable spirit. I found myself rooting for them to escape and was really moved by their friendship, especially at the end. Definitely worth watching!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of prison escape dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in historical biographical stories”
  • “Those who appreciate stories of resilience and friendship”
  • “Fans of Charlie Hunnam and Rami Malek”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence”
  • “Nudity”
  • “Disturbing prison conditions”
  • “Strong language”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “While it doesn’t surpass the original, this remake captures the essence of survival and the strength of human connection, with strong performances from Hunnam and Malek.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “A solid, if not groundbreaking, retelling of the classic escape story. The film excels in depicting the harsh realities of prison life and the enduring bond between the two leads.
• IndieWire: “Hunnam and Malek deliver powerful performances in this gritty prison drama, making it a worthwhile watch despite its familiar narrative. The film’s focus on the characters’ emotional journey elevates it beyond a simple remake.

Audience Reactions

The acting was superb, especially from Hunnam and Malek, who brought depth to their characters.: Most viewers praised the strong performances and the portrayal of friendship in the face of adversity.

The movie was gritty and realistic, portraying the harsh conditions of the prison effectively.: Many viewers appreciated the film’s authenticity and its unflinching depiction of prison life.

Overall Consensus: While some find it inferior to the original, the remake is generally considered a well-acted and engaging prison drama with a focus on the enduring power of friendship.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Charlie Hunnam lost 40 pounds while filming the sequences depicting Papillon’s solitary confinement to realistically portray the effects of starvation and isolation.”
• “The film is based on the autobiographical novels ‘Papillon’ and ‘Banco’ by Henri Charrière, though the accuracy of Charrière’s claims has been debated.”
• “Filming took place in Belgrade, Serbia, to recreate the harsh environments of the French Guiana penal colony.”

🖥️ How to Watch Papillon?

Papillon (2018) is available for streaming on platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. You can rent or buy it on these services. Check your local listings for availability, as streaming options may vary by region. Physical copies (DVD and Blu-ray) are also available for purchase through major retailers and online marketplaces.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Papillon, you might like these similar films:

• The Shawshank Redemption (1994): Shares themes of wrongful imprisonment, resilience, and the enduring power of hope in a brutal prison environment.
• Midnight Express (1978): Depicts the harrowing experiences of a man in a foreign prison, highlighting the brutality and despair of the penal system.
• The Count of Monte Cristo (2002): Features a protagonist wrongly imprisoned who seeks freedom and revenge, focusing on themes of betrayal and redemption.
• Escape from Alcatraz (1979): A thrilling prison escape movie based on a true story, emphasizing meticulous planning and relentless determination.

🛒 Papillon Related Products

• Papillon (1973) [Blu-ray]: The original Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman classic, remastered on Blu-ray. Experience the iconic performances and gripping story in high definition.
• Papillon: A Novel: Henri Charriere’s autobiographical novel that inspired the films. Dive deeper into the true story of Papillon’s incredible journey.
• Prison Escape Puzzle Box: Challenge your mind with this intricately designed puzzle box inspired by escape rooms and prison break scenarios, simulating the ingenuity required for Papillon’s escapes. Wooden mechanical brain teaser box secret opening magic puzzles.
• Motivational ‘Never Give Up’ Poster: An inspiring poster with a quote embodying Papillon’s relentless spirit. A daily reminder to persevere through challenges.

🎧 Soundtrack

Papillon features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Titles” – performed by David Buckley
• “Bei mir bist du schön (Means That You’re Grand)” – performed by The Hot Sardines

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Papillon (2017) | Recap | The Recap Mania

Looking for a quick catch-up on the intense drama of Papillon? This well-made recap covers all the key moments, leaving you ready to dive into the movie.

This Man Finally Breaks Out Of Prison After 20 Tries; But Then He’s Found Not Guilty | Mystery Recapped

Prepare to be captivated by the incredible story of Papillon! This recap takes you through the character’s epic escape attempts and the shocking twist that awaits him.

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