When Henri “Papillon” Charrière, played by Steve McQueen, first appears on screen, he seems indifferent—no resistance toward his fate of being imprisoned. He quickly befriends Louis Dega, played by Dustin Hoffman, though it begins as a strategic transaction. Papillon provides physical protection, and in return Dega finances his escape.

Their relationship evolves as the prison wears down their hope. Papillon remains determined to escape despite multiple failed attempts and the horrible punishments that follow each one. Dega eventually gives in, accepts a lifelong imprisonment, and focuses on settling in. Same prison. Two different answers.

McQueen goes through an impressive transformation, carrying Papillon across the decades of his imprisonment. By the end, his eyes are faded—but they remain curious.

What I admire the most about Papillon is that he remains humane and truthful in such extreme circumstances. He never loses his decency. Thrown into solitary confinement after a failed escape attempt, he never gave up Dega’s name. He did not expect anything in return for protecting his friend—he simply knew it was the right thing to do, and he endured physical and psychological torture for it.

Papillon taught me the strength of hope in surviving hardship, and it hit me especially hard while I was between jobs. He reminded me to be grateful for what I have—a beautiful family, our health, a financial cushion. I have a comfortable and privileged life, filled with love and happiness, even when temporary uncertainty and hardship find me. We are often pigeonholed into our own problems, and that sword cuts twice—it blinds us to what is important, and it makes us forget how fortunate we are.

Papillon is a stoic character who teaches determination and hope. What I think is open to interpretation is his refusal to give up or settle for less. Is settling always a defeat? I do not think so. My life has been a mixture of my own decisions and accepting what comes along my path. If it aligns with my virtues and values, I remain open-minded to a new challenge or adventure—now with more responsibilities. My choices may look suboptimal or against the stream from the outside. Maybe I am settling for less. It does not matter. I do not owe anyone an explanation. I am truthful, and I am living to do my best in the moment.