Catch Me If You Can-Hollywood Loves the Con Man Doesn't It?
Hollywood loves it's films about con men, thieves and con job and anything revolving around stealing and the glorification of stealing. Doesn't it sometimes seem that way? Oceans 11, Oceans 12, Oceans 13, Oceans 14, Oceans 21, etc. Hollywood loves the good thief movie doesn't it? Catch Me If You Can is a terrific movie that follows the life of an incredible teenage con man, that is based on the true life story of Frank Abagnale played by Leonard DiCaprio. We follow Frank, as he sets up all sorts of imaginative cons, ranging from pretending to be an airline pilot, expertly forging checks to making money when he sleeps with prostitutes. You can see why this film was made in Hollywood, the executives must have loved this script, huh?
This is simply a great movie and lots of fun and will probably be somewhat of an overlooked film when people reflect on Steven Spielberg's long career. The movie is so well executed in every category, ranging from its strong script, great direction and its acting performances. The acting, by DiCaprio borders on great and Tom Hanks, who has been going through the motions for years, is passable as the Agent who is obsessed with catching the bright, young Frank. The supporting cast truly helps the film, as Jennifer Garner, Martin Sheen, James Brolin and Christopher Walken all turn in solid and often vivid performance. Yes, the one tone Jennifer Garner has a brief but fun part.
Catch Me If You Can was a box-office hit bringing in over $250 million across the globe and Spielberg should be given tremendous credit for keeping the budget at about $45-$55 million in an era where directors and studio executives are seeing how much money they can waste. The film's success is in part due to the name recognition of Spielberg, DiCaprio and Hanks, but much credit must also be given to the intelligent and fun script. It is a great study of a cunning character and a great cat and mouse game. Catch Me If You Can is what Hollywood needs to do more of, not sequels, not mindless explosions just for mindless explosions sake. If you have somehow missed this film, then you will not be disappointed for it is a wonderful ride.
Story A
Acting A
Visuals B+
Originality/Innovation A-
Enjoyability Grade A
Home Theater/HD Factor A (Overall the film is well shot.)
Overall Grade A(Catch Me If You Can is great fun and well worth a look. It is destined to become one of Spielberg's best films.)
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