The 2017 film Papillon is a powerful adaptation of the 1973 classic, based on the autobiographical books by French convict Henri Charrière. Directed by Michael Noer, the movie stars Charlie Hunnam as Henri “Papillon” Charrière and Rami Malek as Louis Dega, capturing the story of an unlikely friendship, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. Set against the brutal conditions of a notorious French penal colony, Papillon is a gritty, emotional journey that explores the indomitable human spirit and the lengths one will go to survive.
Plot Summary
Papillon follows the life of Henri Charrière, a safecracker from the Parisian underworld who is wrongfully convicted of murder in the 1930s. Sentenced to life imprisonment in the infamous Devil’s Island penal colony in French Guiana, he soon realizes that escape is his only option. Determined to regain his freedom, he befriends Louis Dega (Rami Malek), a wealthy but frail prisoner known for his counterfeiting skills. Dega’s financial resources and Papillon’s physical resilience create a mutually beneficial partnership, leading to a bond that sustains them through the harshest conditions. Together, they navigate the unforgiving environment, facing starvation, brutality, and isolation as they repeatedly attempt to escape.
Themes in Papillon
- The Will to Survive: Papillon powerfully portrays the human instinct for survival, even under the most severe and life-threatening conditions. Papillon’s resilience and determination to escape serve as a testament to the human will, showing that the desire for freedom is stronger than any obstacle.
- Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between Papillon and Dega is central to the story. Despite their different personalities and backgrounds, they develop a loyal friendship that helps them endure the horrors of prison life. Their friendship adds emotional depth to the film, showcasing the strength of companionship in the face of adversity.
- Freedom and Oppression: The film deeply explores the theme of freedom, both physical and psychological. For Papillon, the walls of the prison are symbolic of the constraints that humans often find themselves in, whether literal or metaphorical. His repeated attempts to escape illustrate a profound longing for freedom and self-determination, even at great personal risk.
- Perseverance and Hope: Despite the countless setbacks, solitary confinement, and physical torture, Papillon’s hope and perseverance remain unbroken. His journey reflects the importance of holding on to hope, even when the situation seems hopeless. The film shows that true strength lies in the courage to keep going, even when failure seems inevitable.
- Human Resilience: Throughout the film, Papillon endures extreme physical and emotional suffering. His endurance represents the extraordinary resilience of the human spirit, emphasizing that even in the darkest times, the drive to overcome and survive can push a person beyond their limits.
Why Papillon is Worth Watching
- Incredible Performances: Charlie Hunnam and Rami Malek deliver intense performances, bringing complexity and depth to their roles. Hunnam’s portrayal of Papillon captures his character’s toughness and vulnerability, while Malek’s depiction of Dega adds a layer of intellectual strength and emotional sensitivity. Together, their chemistry as unlikely allies is convincing and moving.
- Authentic Cinematic Experience: The film’s visuals transport viewers to the brutal reality of Devil’s Island. The attention to detail in the setting, combined with powerful cinematography, makes the environment feel visceral and immersive. Each scene, from the dark prison cells to the rugged landscape of the island, adds to the intensity of the story.
- Engaging Storyline: Papillon is a gripping story of survival, filled with moments of suspense and tension. While it portrays the hardships of prison life, it is also an adventure filled with daring escapes and moments of personal triumph. The narrative keeps viewers engaged, making them root for the protagonist’s freedom.
- A Powerful Remake of a Classic: As a reimagining of the 1973 original, the 2017 Papillon brings a fresh perspective to Charrière’s story. While it stays true to the essence of the classic, it also adds modern cinematic elements that enhance the storytelling, making it accessible to new audiences while paying homage to the original.
- Inspiring Message of Resilience: Papillon leaves viewers with a sense of admiration for the power of human resilience. The movie is not just about escaping physical imprisonment; it’s about the unbreakable spirit of a man determined to be free. Papillon’s journey is a reminder that the drive for freedom and survival can transcend any boundary.
A Closer Look at the Characters
- Henri “Papillon” Charrière: Papillon’s character is portrayed as both tough and sensitive, a man whose sense of justice and freedom fuels his fight. He is a complex protagonist who embodies the will to survive and defy oppression. His character arc is inspiring, showcasing growth, determination, and a refusal to surrender his humanity.
- Louis Dega: Louis Dega’s character adds an interesting dynamic to the story. While he is initially portrayed as a fragile and intellectual character, his resilience grows as he learns to rely on Papillon for survival. Dega’s character evolution highlights the power of friendship and the unexpected strength that can come from adversity.
Key Takeaways
Papillon is a testament to the human spirit’s strength, resilience, and pursuit of freedom. The film showcases the power of hope, friendship, and determination, even in the darkest of times. It tells a story not only about physical escape but also about inner freedom, pushing the protagonist to confront his limitations and embrace the depth of his courage. The relationship between Papillon and Dega serves as a reminder that genuine connections can form even in the most unlikely of places, offering comfort and strength when it’s needed most.
Final Thoughts
Papillon is a gripping and emotional journey that captivates with its raw portrayal of survival and friendship. With excellent performances, stunning visuals, and a powerful message, it offers viewers a profound cinematic experience. The film is both thrilling and inspiring, leaving audiences with a lasting impression of resilience and hope. For anyone drawn to stories of perseverance and the unyielding pursuit of freedom, Papillon is a must-watch.
