15 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Catch Me If You Can

Catch Me If You Can: Get ready to chase the thrill of deception and the excitement of outsmarting the odds in this captivating film. As Frank, a master of disguise and forgery, dances through the lines of legality, FBI agent Carl is hot on his trail. With a mix of biography, crime, and drama, these 15 must-watch movies will keep you on the edge of your seat, exploring the fascinating world of cunning con artists and the relentless pursuit to catch them.

1) Can You Ever Forgive Me?

Release date: May, 2019
IMDB Rating: 7.1

2) The Wolf of Wall Street

The Wolf of Wall Street is reminiscent of Catch Me If You Can in its portrayal of a charismatic, yet morally ambiguous protagonist. Leonardo DiCaprio shines in both films, captivating the audience with his smooth talk and charm. While Catch Me If You Can follows the story of a young con man who assumes multiple identities, The Wolf of Wall Street is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who indulges in a life of debauchery and excess. Both films explore themes of deception, fraud, and the pursuit of wealth, but The Wolf of Wall Street takes it to a whole new level with its portrayal of Belfort's extravagant lifestyle and wild parties. Martin Scorsese's direction and Terence Winter's writing create a fast-paced and exhilarating cinematic experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Release date: January, 2014
IMDB Rating: 8.2
17 Incredible Movies Similar to The Wolf of Wall Street

3) The Chameleon

The Chameleon is reminiscent of Catch Me If You Can, with both movies exploring the theme of impostors and deception. In Catch Me If You Can, we follow the skilled forger Frank as he successfully impersonates various professionals. Similarly, The Chameleon tells the story of Frédéric Fortin, who convincingly assumes the identity of a woman's long-lost son. However, while Catch Me If You Can focuses on the pursuit of the con man by FBI agent Carl, The Chameleon delves into the unraveling of Nicholas' true identity and the investigation by the FBI. Another difference lies in the tone of the movies, with Catch Me If You Can maintaining a lighthearted charm, while The Chameleon takes a more serious approach. Despite their differences, fans of Catch Me If You Can will find The Chameleon intriguing as it explores a similar theme of deception and the lengths people will go to assume another's identity.

Release date: June, 2010
IMDB Rating: 5.5

4) The Bankers of God: The Calvi Affair

The Bankers of God: The Calvi Affair is reminiscent of Catch Me If You Can in its exploration of deception and fraud. Both movies delve into the world of impostors and the race against time to uncover the truth. However, while Catch Me If You Can focuses on the cat-and-mouse chase between a skilled forger and an FBI agent, The Bankers of God takes a different approach by reconstructing the bankruptcy of the Banco Ambrosiano and its connections with the Vatican and the Masonry. The Italian film adds a layer of controversy and unsolved crime to the mix, making it a compelling watch for those intrigued by hidden agendas and high-stakes maneuvering. Although the details and story threads in The Bankers of God may fly over some viewers' heads, the capable storytelling and well-acted performances, particularly by Omero Antonutti as the sympathetic banker Roberto Calvi, keep the audience engaged.

Release date: March, 2002
IMDB Rating: 6.3

5) Max Manus: Man of War

"Max Manus: Man of War" is a thrilling movie that will transport you to the depths of World War II. Just like "Catch Me If You Can," it tells the story of a fascinating character battling against his own inner demons. While "Catch Me If You Can" takes us on a journey of deception and fraud, "Max Manus: Man of War" immerses us in the world of sabotage and true crime. Both films keep you on the edge of your seat, but while "Catch Me If You Can" focuses on the pursuit of a con man, "Max Manus: Man of War" delves into the harrowing experiences of one of the most brilliant saboteurs of the war. With its breathtaking production value and exceptional performances, "Max Manus: Man of War" will captivate not only history enthusiasts but anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story.

Release date: December, 2008
IMDB Rating: 7.3

6) The Serpent's Kiss

The Serpent's Kiss, released in 1997, is reminiscent of Catch Me If You Can. Both films explore the theme of deception and feature charismatic lead actors. While Catch Me If You Can follows the thrilling pursuits of a skilled forger played by Leonardo DiCaprio, The Serpent's Kiss takes us back to 17th-century England, where a Dutch garden architect (Ewan McGregor) becomes entangled in a web of passion and treachery. Although the plots differ, both movies captivate viewers with their intricate narratives and the charm of their leading men. While Catch Me If You Can keeps us on the edge of our seats with its fast-paced race against time, The Serpent's Kiss draws us in with its sumptuous visuals and a stellar cast that includes Greta Scacchi and Pete Postlethwaite.

Release date: May, 1997
IMDB Rating: 5.6

7) The Imposter

The Imposter is a documentary that revolves around the story of Nicholas Barclay, a young man from Texas who goes missing for three years and then suddenly reappears in France, claiming to be the missing teenager. However, it becomes clear that he is an impostor, a 23-year-old con-artist. The film skillfully explores the unraveling of this bizarre story through a combination of interviews and well-executed reconstructions of the events. Unlike Catch Me If You Can, which is a fictional biographical crime drama, The Imposter is a gripping documentary that delves into the nature of truth and lies. While both films revolve around impostors and deception, The Imposter provides us with a chilling real-life account that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It is a thought-provoking film that challenges our perception of reality and showcases the power of manipulation.

Release date: August, 2012
IMDB Rating: 7.5

8) PiraMMMida

PiraMMMida: Russia, early 90s. A fictional story inspired by financier Sergey Mavrodi, his securities company "MMM", and the pyramid scheme he ran that left upwards of fifteen million investors with nothing when it crashed. While Catch Me If You Can takes us on a thrilling journey with a young con artist, PiraMMMida delves into the dark world of financial fraud. Both movies explore the theme of deception, with Catch Me If You Can focusing on the personal pursuit of an FBI agent and PiraMMMida shedding light on the political landscape of Russia in the 90s. Leonardo DiCaprio's charming performance is matched by Aleksey Serebryakov's portrayal of Sergey Mavrodi, capturing the manipulative charisma that draws people into their schemes. However, where Catch Me If You Can is a biographical crime drama, PiraMMMida adds a thrilling twist as it unravels the intricate web of a pyramid scheme.

Release date: April, 2011
IMDB Rating: 6.4

9) I Love You Phillip Morris

I Love You Phillip Morris" is reminiscent of "Catch Me If You Can" in its exploration of deception, fraud, and impostors. Both films revolve around charismatic main characters who excel at assuming false identities and manipulating others. However, "I Love You Phillip Morris" adds a unique twist by delving into the theme of homosexuality, offering a fresh perspective on the con artist genre. Jim Carrey delivers a staggering performance, using his comedic talents to portray a complex and multi-dimensional character. Ewan McGregor, on the other hand, brings tender honesty to his role, renewing the early promise of his career. While "Catch Me If You Can" focuses on the pursuit of the protagonist by an FBI agent, "I Love You Phillip Morris" delves into the protagonist's relentless pursuit of his second love, showcasing the lengths he will go to be with him. This film is a revolution of sorts, taking a taboo subject and humanizing it, giving it a truly human face.

Release date: May, 2010
IMDB Rating: 6.6

10) The Basketball Diaries

"The Basketball Diaries" is a captivating movie that delves into the harrowing world of drug addiction through the eyes of a New York teenager named Jim Carroll, played brilliantly by Leonardo DiCaprio. Although the film received some backlash after the Columbine shootings, the connection seems misplaced. The movie's focus is not on school shootings, but on Jim's descent into the dark and gritty world of drugs. It's a raw and unflinching portrayal that doesn't shy away from the ugliness of addiction. Leonardo DiCaprio delivers a powerful performance, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The supporting cast, including Lorraine Bracco, Mark Wahlberg, Bruno Kirby, Juliette Lewis, and Ernie Hudson, also gives compelling performances that add depth to the story.

Release date: April, 1995
IMDB Rating: 7.3

11) Narcos

Narcos takes you on a thrilling ride through the criminal underworld, just like Catch Me If You Can. While the latter focuses on the life of a skilled forger who assumes different identities, Narcos delves into the captivating world of drug lord Pablo Escobar and the many kingpins who plagued Colombia. Both movies explore the themes of deception, fraud, and the race against time. However, while Catch Me If You Can is a cinema movie with a longer runtime, Narcos is a series that spans multiple seasons, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of the characters and their stories. If you enjoyed the charm and smoothness of Leonardo DiCaprio's character in Catch Me If You Can, you'll be captivated by the performances in Narcos, particularly by Pedro Pascal's portrayal of DEA agent Javier Peña and Wagner Moura's critically acclaimed performance as Pablo Escobar.

Release date: November, 2019
IMDB Rating: 8.8
17 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Narcos

12) Lumumba

**Lumumba**: Lumumba, a movie released in 2000, is reminiscent of Catch Me If You Can in its portrayal of a charismatic and influential protagonist. While Catch Me If You Can follows the life of Frank Abagnale Jr., a skilled forger who successfully impersonates various professionals, Lumumba tells the true story of Patrice Lumumba, a controversial leader of independent Congo. Both movies explore the theme of deception and the lengths individuals go to achieve their goals. However, Lumumba takes a more serious and political approach, delving into the historical context of Belgian colonization and Lumumba's struggle for independence. With its fast-paced narrative and strong production values, Lumumba offers a valuable lesson on the complexities of politics and power. Watch Lumumba to gain a deeper understanding of historical events and the impact they have on contemporary society.

Release date: September, 2000
IMDB Rating: 7.2

13) When Did You Last See Your Father?

When Did You Last See Your Father? is a heartwarming film that explores the complex relationship between a father and son. It reminded me of Catch Me If You Can in its ability to delve into the emotional depths of family dynamics. Both movies tackle themes of deception and the struggle to understand one's identity. While Catch Me If You Can follows the thrilling pursuit of a con man by an FBI agent, When Did You Last See Your Father? focuses on the conflicting memories of a son as his father approaches death. The performances in both films are superb, with Leonardo DiCaprio and Jim Broadbent delivering captivating portrayals. The cinematography in Catch Me If You Can, particularly the use of lighting, showcases the talent of Janusz Kaminski. Similarly, the photography in When Did You Last See Your Father? effectively uses light and dark to enhance the storytelling.

Release date: October, 2007
IMDB Rating: 6.8

14) The Departed

The Departed is a thrilling crime drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like Catch Me If You Can. Both movies feature Leonardo DiCaprio in captivating roles, showcasing his diverse acting abilities. While Catch Me If You Can explores the world of deception and forgery, The Departed delves into the gritty underworld of organized crime. The Departed, directed by Martin Scorsese, is reminiscent of Catch Me If You Can in its masterful storytelling and exceptional performances. With an all-star cast that includes Matt Damon and Jack Nicholson, The Departed has garnered critical acclaim and numerous nominations. So if you enjoyed the suspenseful cat-and-mouse game in Catch Me If You Can, you won't be disappointed by The Departed's gripping tale of undercover cops and Irish gangsters.

Release date: October, 2006
IMDB Rating: 8.5
16 Must-Watch Movies Similar to The Departed

15) Larry Crowne

Larry Crowne, much like Catch Me If You Can, is a charming movie that explores the journey of self-discovery and reinvention. While Catch Me If You Can follows the adventures of a young con man who assumes various identities, Larry Crowne tells the story of a middle-aged man who, after losing his job, decides to go back to college to find a new purpose in life. Both movies showcase the protagonist's transformation and growth as they navigate through new experiences and relationships. However, where Catch Me If You Can is a thrilling crime drama with a race against time, Larry Crowne takes a more relaxed and lighthearted approach, focusing on the everyday struggles and triumphs of its characters. With Tom Hanks taking the lead role and also directing the film, Larry Crowne delivers a delightful and heartwarming performance that will leave viewers feeling inspired and motivated to embrace change in their own lives.

Release date: July, 2011
IMDB Rating: 6.1

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