Papillon was Visceral and Riveting - Will's Review

Papillon is in theaters on August 24th, 2018.

Based on real life events, Papillon, tells the story of Henri “Papillon” Charrière, a safecracker and Louis Dega, a counterfeiter. Papillon (Charlie Hunnam) gets framed for murder and is sent to a penal colony in French Guiana. While on his way there, Papillon meets Louis (Rami Malek) and the two forge an everlasting friendship.

I did not realize it but this is also a remake of the 1973 film. When Papillon and Louis meet, he offers protection in exchange to financing their escape plans. The punishment for getting caught escaping is solitary confinement for several years per offense and finally to be sent to an isolated island in the middle of the ocean.

It’s a story of persistence and trust. The prison was a nightmare and the surrounding conditions is equally unforgiving. It’s also surprising that they didn’t break along the way. Both Papillon and Louis find themselves in a tough situation and need to support each other through the years.

Hunnam and Malek were great in their roles and both giving their career best. There are some slow parts in the middle of the film but it did serve a purpose for the story so I didn’t mind too much. The transition between a few scenes could have been done better.

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed it. Although it could’ve been shorter, Papillon was visceral and riveting.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Will (Contributor) has called many places home but now resides in Michigan. An Air Force veteran and avid movie goer who enjoys indie movies just as much as major blockbusters. He is also a technology enthusiast.
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