Papillon

In 1931, Henri Charriere, known as Papillon, leads a life of crime in Paris as a professional safecracker. His days are spent breaking into mansions and stealing valuable jewelry, which he delivers to his boss for payment in return.

After a successful robbery, Papillon meets with his boss to hand over the stolen diamonds. During this meeting, his boss intimidatingly hints at the dangerous consequences for deceit, leaving Papillon anxious but resolute.

Papillon returns home to discuss their future with his wife, Nenette. She dreams of a peaceful life in the countryside away from crime, but Papillon doubts they could make enough money there, hinting at the conflict between their aspirations.

The next morning, the police arrive at their doorstep and arrest Papillon, charging him with murder. Regardless of his protests claiming he was with Nenette all night, the officers ignore his pleas and take him away.

In prison, Papillon befriends fellow inmate Julot, who hints at the cost of escaping. He learns about Louis Dega, a wealthy man who could possibly help fund their escape, leading Papillon to devise a plan to break free.

All new prisoners, including Papillon, are taken by boat to the infamous penal colony in French Guiana. The journey is filled with tension as Papillon faces the menacing reality of the new environment filled with deadly criminals.

Upon arrival, Papillon and other prisoners are subjected to harsh labor. The prison warden reminds them of the brutal consequences of attempting escape, instilling fear in the newcomers as they start their grim life of imprisonment.

Papillon's plan to escape by boat unfolds, but it backfires when the boatman informs the guards of the escape. Papillon is caught and rather than facing death, he is sent to solitary confinement as a punishment.

In solitary confinement, Papillon faces unbearable conditions with little food and no human contact. He struggles to maintain his sanity, illustrating the psychological toll of isolation on him.

Eventually, Papillon is taken to the prison hospital where he reunites with Dega. Together, they concoct a new escape plan, recruiting more prisoners to ensure better chances of success and survival.

The prisoners witness the execution of their fellow inmate Julot after an escape attempt resulting in the death of two guards. This event serves as a grim reminder of the risks involved in seeking freedom.

During a movie night, Dega successfully drugs the guards, allowing Papillon and his group to seize the opportunity to escape. They break down the main door amidst chaos, and the group flees into the darkness.

After escaping, the group encounters a violent storm at sea, creating perilous conditions. Celier's ruthless actions lead to confrontation, jeopardizing their safety and marking the beginning of a brutal struggle for survival.

Capturing Papillon and Dega after their escape, they are once again imprisoned, with Dega facing harsher punishment due to his betrayal during the escape. Their reunification after years apart brings back memories of their friendship amidst despair.

Finally, after a long span of time, Papillon is freed and settles in Venezuela. He writes a memoir of his experiences, reflecting on his long journey, and years later, he returns to Paris, the city that had once shackled his spirit.