Based on an incredible story whose veracity has been called into question, "Papillon" tells the story of Henri Charriere (Steve McQueen), a French thug convicted of murdering a pimp and sent to Devil's Island. There he befriends a shifty, resourceful inmate (Dustin Hoffman) and begins his dire efforts to become the first escapee of the notorious penal colony. Franklin J. Schaffner's film, with a screenplay by Dalton Trumbo, is overlong, but very good in parts, and demonstrates the evident star power of McQueen. Hoffman makes some irritating acting choices as his screen partner.
Entertainment Magazine
Based on an incredible story whose veracity has been called into question, "Papillon" tells the story of Henri Charriere (Steve McQueen), a French thug convicted of murdering a pimp and sent to Devil's Island. There he befriends a shifty, resourceful inmate (Dustin Hoffman) and begins his dire efforts to become the first escapee of the notorious penal colony. Franklin J. Schaffner's film, with a screenplay by Dalton Trumbo, is overlong, but very good in parts, and demonstrates the evident star power of McQueen. Hoffman makes some irritating acting choices as his screen partner.
