What is Papillon?
Papillon is a film first released in 1973. Catalogued under Crime, Drama.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 1973
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 151 minutes
- Release date
- Dec 16, 1973
- Studios
- Allied Artists Pictures, Solar Productions, Corona-General
- Genres
- Crime, Drama
- Updated
Trailer
Overview
Papillon is a film first released in 1973. Catalogued under Crime, Drama. Produced and broadcast by Allied Artists Pictures, Solar Productions, Corona-General. Current status: Released.
Should you watch it?
“A daring escape unfolds on a brutal prison island.”
- Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman deliver powerful performances
- The film’s high‑budget production showcases striking locations
- A tense, character‑driven escape narrative
- At 2h 31m the length can feel drawn out
- Violent prison scenes may be intense for some viewers
Watch it if you enjoy character‑driven survival dramas with classic 1970s filmmaking.
The gritty prison setting and violent moments make it appropriate for mature audiences.
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Cast
Frequently asked questions
Who are the lead actors?
The film stars Steve McQueen as Charrière ("Papillon") and Dustin Hoffman as Louis Dega.
When was the film released?
It was released in the United States on December 16, 1973.
What is the film’s runtime and rating?
The runtime is 2 hours 31 minutes and it carries a PG rating.
Is the story based on real events?
Yes, it is based on the true story of French prisoner Henri Charrière.
How did the film perform financially?
Although it cost about $12 million to make, it earned more than twice that amount in its first year.