"The greatest adventure of escape!"
Papillon - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
Hey you bastards, I'm still here.
— Henri 'Papillon' Charrière
Context:
He first whispers this line after emerging from two years of brutal solitary confinement, barely able to stand. He repeats it at the very end of the film, shouting it at Devil's Island as the ocean carries him to freedom, signifying his ultimate victory.
Meaning:
This is Papillon's mantra of defiance. It encapsulates his unbreakable spirit and his refusal to be defeated by the dehumanizing prison system. It's a declaration of existence and identity against overwhelming forces trying to erase him.
I accuse you... of a wasted life!
— Judge in Dream
Context:
During his first horrific stint in solitary confinement, Papillon has a surreal nightmare. He is on trial in a vast desert, and the judge levels this accusation at him. His family and Dega are the jury, and they all condemn him.
Meaning:
This quote reframes the concept of guilt. Papillon is innocent of murder, but this dream forces him to confront a deeper, existential failing: the crime of not living fully. It suggests that the greatest tragedy is to surrender one's will and purpose. Papillon's plea of "Guilty" is an acknowledgment of this, which in turn strengthens his resolve to escape and truly live.
Blame is for God and small children.
— Louis Dega
Context:
Dega says this to Papillon at some point during their imprisonment, likely in response to Papillon's protestations of being framed or railing against the injustice of their situation. It highlights the philosophical difference between the two friends.
Meaning:
This line reflects Dega's pragmatic and somewhat cynical worldview. It's his way of saying that in their situation, assigning blame is a useless luxury. What matters is dealing with the reality in front of them and surviving. It speaks to a mature, if resigned, acceptance of one's fate.
Me they can kill... You they own.
— Henri 'Papillon' Charrière
Context:
Papillon says this to Dega, highlighting the fundamental difference in their philosophies. Papillon's constant rebellion may get him killed, but it ensures he is never spiritually broken or "owned" by the prison authorities, unlike Dega, who has chosen to adapt and survive within the rules.
Meaning:
This quote starkly defines the two men's approaches to imprisonment. Papillon sees death as a lesser evil than spiritual submission. He recognizes that by adapting and conforming, Dega is allowing the system to possess his soul, even if it keeps his body alive. It's a powerful statement on the nature of true freedom.