Catch Me If You Can

"Catch Me If You Can" is one of the best movies about corn artists, as it is based on the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a skilled con artist and impostor who successfully assumed multiple identities and forged millions of dollars' worth of checks before his 19th birthday.

The plot of "Catch Me If You Can" follows Frank Abagnale Jr. (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), a charismatic and intelligent teenager who runs away from home after his parents' marriage falls apart. With a keen ability to deceive and a knack for forging checks, Frank begins an elaborate life of fraud and deception. He poses as a Pan Am pilot, a doctor, and a lawyer, all while evading the relentless pursuit of FBI agent Carl Hanratty (played by Tom Hanks)

The film probes the very essence of identity from its opening scene, laying the foundation for Frank's search for identity, as he navigates through a series of ingenious cons. Armed with his boyish charm, quick wit, and knowledge gleaned from movies, Frank captivates not only his marks but also the audience.

The stark contrast to Frank's character is embodied by Tom Hanks' portrayal of FBI agent Carl Hanratty. Shedding his customary paternal aura, Hanks immerses himself in the role of a driven yet humorless investigator devoted to his work. Hanratty's relentless pursuit of Frank is motivated by personal sacrifices, as his dedication to his job cost him his marriage and the estrangement of his daughter. Paradoxically, Hanratty and Frank share more similarities than they care to admit.

Release: 2002

Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken

Rotten Tomatoes: 96%