A petty criminal from Paris, wrongly convicted of murder, is sentenced to life imprisonment in the notorious penal colony of French Guiana. Determined to escape at any cost, he focuses on his dogged pursuit of freedom. On the arduous journey, he meets an eccentric yet cunning fellow prisoner, who relies on his intelligence to survive in the brutal environment. The two form an unlikely partnership, sharing a mutual desire to break free from the hopelessness surrounding them. As they confront the challenges of the dense jungle and the oppressive regime, their resolve is constantly tested. Yet, the bond between them grows stronger as they meticulously plan their escape.

The story intensifies as they endure the horrific realities of the labor camps and the inhuman conditions designed to break their spirits. Several escape attempts lead to severe punishment and isolation, pushing them to the limits of their endurance. The protagonist's unyielding obsession with freedom becomes a symbol of persistence and hope against tremendous odds. His journey is a relentless fight not only for physical liberty but also for maintaining dignity and humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. The film delves deep into themes of friendship, survival, and the indomitable human spirit, as the characters cling to the faint hope of eventually reclaiming their freedom.