Today’s quick review: Papillon. Framed for murder by his associates, safecracker Henri “Papillon” Charriere (Charlie Hunnam) trades the nightlife of Paris for a life sentence in French Guyana, a remote prison colony. Undeterred, Papillon forms a partnership with Louis Dega (Henri Malek), a rich forger who needs his protection to survive. With the help of Dega’s money, the two men brave hostile guards and inmates in search of a way to escape.
Papillon is a prison drama based on a true story. Set in the 1930s, Papillon follows two men as they try to survive France’s harsh penal system. The backbone of the movie is the relationship between Charriere and Dega. The two men are both criminals, but unlike their fellow inmates, they each have a compassionate streak. What should have been a brutal tale of survival and self-interest is transformed into something more hopeful by their friendship.
Papillon is a remake of a 1973 film with the same name. Where the original was a plain, understated film that told its story with few flourishes, the remake indulges in a more creative style of direction, a noticeable soundtrack, and a story that is condensed in a few places. The changes streamline the movie, soften the harshest parts of the story, and make it easier to follow, but they also sacrifice the raw dramatic power of the original.
The result is a solidly constructed drama that benefits from a compelling story, polished presentation, and a pair of talented leads. The remake does not have quite the same stark, memorable quality as the original, but it handles itself well and ultimately makes for a satisfying watch. Give Papillon a try if you are in the mood for a harsh but uplifting drama. Skip it if you are looking for a more fanciful adventure.
For another take on the same source material, try the original Papillon. For a powerful prison drama, try The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, or Cool Hand Luke.
7.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for engaging characters and solid craftsmanship.