Papillon (film)
|
|
Papillon is a 1973 movie based on the memoir of the same title by Henri Charrière also known as Papillon, which is French for "butterfly". The film was directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and starred Steve McQueen in the title role and Dustin Hoffman as a fellow prisoner. Hoffman's character was not included in the book, but was added by screenwriter Dalton Trumbo as a request by the production company for a second starring role.
Papillon, whose name comes from a large butterfly, the symbol of freedom, tattooted on his chest, is a petty safe cracker who is wrongly convicted of killing a pimp. After a short stay in a french prison he is sent to the infamous detention camp at French Guiana known as Devil's Island. Papillon is determined to escape, but each attempt meets with failure and an increasing stay in solitary confinement. Papillon is the portrayal of a defiant man who refuses to succumb to horrible conditions and repeated mental toture.
While Papillon is a true story of Charrière's life, some of the descriptions have been called into question. Charrière strongly defended his claims until his death.
A great performance by Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman, marketed as "The greatest adventure of escape ever filmed!"
Cast
- Steve McQueen ( Henri 'Papillon' Charrière)
- Dustin Hoffman (Louis Dega)
- Victor Jory (Indian chief)
- Don Gordon (Julot)
- Anthony Zerbe (Toussaint Leper Colony chief)
- Robert Deman (Maturette)
- Woodrow Parfrey (Clusiot)
- Bill Mumy (Lariot)