A Prophet

Malik El Djebena, a 19-year-old of Maghrebi descent, is sentenced to six years in prison after a violent incident with police officers. His entry into the harsh prison environment marks the beginning of a tumultuous journey shaped by crime and survival.

Upon arriving at prison, Malik quickly becomes entangled with the ruthless Corsican mobsters, led by César Luciani. This faction enforces a strict and oppressive regime among the inmates, creating a tense atmosphere of division within the prison.

Malik finds himself coerced by Luciani into taking on a dark role as an assassin for Reyeb, a Maghrebi witness in a high-stakes trial. This act earns Malik an unexpected underground protection from the Corsicans, despite his background.

Initially relegated to a lowly servant role among the Corsican inmates, Malik is treated with contempt and struggles with the haunting memory of his actions. This phase of humiliation is crucial as it sets the stage for Malik's evolution in the prison hierarchy.

With many Corsican leaders being transferred or released, Malik's situation begins to change. He secretly learns the Corsican language, positioning himself as an informant for Luciani, which significantly boosts his authority among the inmates.

As Malik's influence grows, he earns day-long furloughs that allow him to immerse himself deeper into the world of crime. During this time, he also forges an essential friendship with Ryad, a fellow inmate who teaches him to read and write.

Malik, alongside Ryad and other inmates, decides to enter the drug trade by selling hashish. Their operation, however, faces an immediate threat when Ryad is kidnapped by a rival drug dealer named Latif, prompting Malik to take action.

Determined to rescue Ryad from Latif's clutches, Malik devises a daring plan where he kidnaps a family member of Latif and uses the leverage to negotiate for Ryad's safe return. This bold move highlights Malik's growing resourcefulness and bravery.

Malik is sent by Luciani to make contact with Brahim Lattrache in Marseille, where he faces significant threats. However, he cleverly avoids danger and impresses Lattrache, who becomes an ally in Malik's criminal endeavors against the Corsicans.

As Malik and Ryad grow more cunning, they hatch a plan to eliminate Jacky Marcaggi, the Corsican mafia's don, who is secretly negotiating with the Italian Lingherris mafia. They kidnap Marcaggi, carefully revealing Luciani's orchestration of the hit before leaving him behind.

After the chaotic events, Malik finds solace at Ryad's home as Ryad faces the return of his cancer. In an emotional moment, Ryad expresses his wish for Malik to care for his family, setting the stage for Malik’s deeper involvement in their lives.

Upon returning to prison after his time away, Malik is placed in solitary confinement to protect him from Luciani’s impending vengeance. This period serves as a pivotal moment for Malik, allowing him to reflect on his journey and reassess his alliances.

Upon returning to the general population, Malik observes the dismantling of Luciani's power as Marcaggi capitalizes on his influence and alignments. This shift signifies the end of the Corsican reign, reshaping the prison’s power dynamics.

On the day of his release from prison, Malik is welcomed by the family of his friend Ryad, showcasing the emotional connections he built despite the tumultuous environment. As they step into a new life together, Malik’s journey reflects themes of survival and renewal.

As Malik transitions into life outside prison, he is escorted by a convoy of new allies, symbolizing his transformation from a vulnerable inmate to a significant player within the criminal underworld. Malik’s story emphasizes resilience amid adversity.