IMDb6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes86%
Metacritic78/100
Google Users76%
Director: Fred Schepisi•Genres: Drama, Comedy
A wealthy, art-dealing New York couple, Flan and Ouisa Kittredge, invite a charismatic young Black man named Paul into their lives after he claims to be a friend of their children from college. Paul's charm and sophistication gradually ingratiate him with them, leading him to deceive them with increasingly elaborate lies about his identity and connections. As his web of deceit expands, it begins to unravel, forcing the Kittredges to confront the reality of his con and the uncomfortable truths it exposes about their own lives and society.
The film was met with widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its sharp screenplay, sophisticated direction, and outstanding performances, especially from Stockard Channing, who garnered an Academy Award nomination for her role. It was praised for its intelligent exploration of themes like race, class, identity, and the nature of truth in a media-saturated world.
Praised for its intelligent and thought-provoking exploration of identity and deception.
Stockard Channing's performance is widely considered a standout, earning critical acclaim.
The film is noted for its witty dialogue and sophisticated examination of social dynamics.
Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's smart writing and engaging performances, particularly Stockard Channing's. Many found it to be a compelling and thought-provoking drama that skillfully blended humor with serious themes.
Stockard Channing was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film received numerous other nominations and awards from various critics' circles and film festivals.
The film is based on a true story that occurred in 1983, where a young con artist named David Hampton defrauded several wealthy New Yorkers by posing as the son of actor Sidney Poitier.
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