Six thrilling con artist films based on true stories

They are masters of deception: While no one wants to be the victim of a swindler, their stories are typically fascinating and have inspired many films over the years. Compiled from DW, here is a list of some exciting stories of con artists that made their way to the big screen.

1. Catch Me If You Can (2002)

Frank Abagnale's spectacular career as a con artist started out with check fraud: After his parents' divorce, the 16-year-old travelled to New York and discovered his talent for forgery — and acting. Searching for recognition, he first posed as a pilot, then as a doctor and a prosecutor. Leonardo DiCaprio starred in the main role in Steven Spielberg's entertaining film.

2. Can You Ever Forgive Me? (2018)

If one faces financial problems, but is a talented writer, getting creative might be a tempting solution. Author Lee Israel, portrayed by Melissa McCarthy, forged and sold up to 400 letters she claimed were written by deceased stars. She was exposed by the FBI and pleaded guilty — and wrote a confessional autobiography that inspired the movie. It obtained three Oscar nominations in 2019.

3. Münchhausen (1943)

Hieronymus Carl Friedrich Freiherr von Münchhausen was a German baron — and a talented storyteller. He spiced up his life at his countryside estate through parties for aristocrats, during which he would share accounts of his highly exaggerated feats. Guests travelled from afar to hear how he rode a cannonball. The lying baron's life was adapted into many films, such as this one with Hans Albers.

4. I Love You Philip Morris (2009)

Steven Jay Russell managed to escape from prison four times. An extremely intelligent con artist with an IQ of 160, he posed as a judge, doctor or millionaire to scam banks and insurance companies. His story was adapted into a comedy starring Jim Carrey, who falls in love with his inmate Philip Morris, played by Ewan McGregor.

5. American Hustle (2013)

The film is based on a 1970s FBI operation to expose corrupt politicians, a sting that involved hiring con artist Melvin Weinberg. The case inspired a black comedy starring Christian Bale in the main role. The film obtained 10 nominations at the Oscars, but didn't win any of the awards.

6. The Captain from Köpenick (1956)

In 1906, the shoemaker Friedrich Wilhelm Voigt marched into the town hall of Köpenick, dressed as a captain. He had the mayor arrested and robbed the city's treasury. A sensational coup: After all, he had also managed to convince a few soldiers to join him for his heist. There are countless film adaptations of this true story, including the one pictured above starring Heinz Rührmann.