Papillon (2017) — How much of Henri Charrière’s Epic Escape Story is True?

Charlie Hunnam and Rami Malek star in the 2017 remake of Papillon, based on Henri Charrière’s memoir of imprisonment and escape from Devil’s Island.

We explore the real history behind the real Papillon, from the notorious French penal colonies in Guiana, why they existed, to how much of Charrière’s incredible story is actually true.

Plus: gym bros in prison, why this movie is like a cheap perfume ad, comparing it to the 1973 Steve McQueen original, and how this gritty film actually sanitised the original book!

📩 Got a bee in your bonnet or a ‘charger’ up your bum about this movie? Email us at historicalmoviespodcast@gmail.com or message @hmpodcast.bsky.social.