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Catch Me If You Can 2002

“The true story of a real fake.”

★ 8.0/10 · 17,250 votes PG-13 DramaCrime Released
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Quick answer

What is Catch Me If You Can?

Catch Me If You Can is a 2002 American crime comedy-drama film directed by Steven Spielberg. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks, with supporting performances by Christopher Walken and Martin Sheen.

Type
Film
Year
2002
Status
Released
Runtime
141 minutes
Release date
Dec 16, 2002
Original language
EN
Origin
United States of America
Studios
Kemp Company, Splendid Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures
Budget
$52,000,000
Revenue
$352,114,312
Genres
Drama, Crime
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Overview

Catch Me If You Can is a 2002 American crime comedy-drama film directed by Steven Spielberg. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks, with supporting performances by Christopher Walken and Martin Sheen. It is based on the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., who successfully forged millions of dollars worth of checks before his 19th birthday while impersonating various professionals including a Pan Am pilot, doctor, and legal prosecutor. His actions eventually draw the attention of the FBI, leading to a cat-and-mouse chase where Abagnale continually evades capture. The title references the challenge posed by the pursuing FBI agent, emphasizing the ongoing struggle between captor and fugitive. Spielberg's direction combines elements of crime, comedy, and drama to portray both the thrill and consequences of Abagnale's fraudulent lifestyle. The film explores themes of identity, family, and justice through its depiction of real-life events.

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Should you watch it?

“A teenage con artist evades the FBI while impersonating pilots, doctors, and prosecutors.”

Reasons to watch
  • Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks deliver strong performances
  • Steven Spielberg's direction keeps the story engaging
Keep in mind
  • some may find the pacing uneven in the second act
  • historical accuracy is secondary to entertainment value

you enjoy true crime stories with a cat-and-mouse dynamic.

Suitable for most audiences; light on violence, moderate language.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the movie based on a true story?

Yes, it is based on the real-life exploits of Frank Abagnale Jr.

Who stars in Catch Me If You Can?

Leonardo DiCaprio plays Frank Abagnale Jr. and Tom Hanks plays the FBI agent.

What roles does Frank impersonate in the film?

He poses as a Pan Am pilot, a doctor, and a legal prosecutor.

Is the movie funny or serious?

It blends drama and comedy, with a playful tone throughout.

Does Frank get caught in the movie?

The film shows his pursuit by the FBI, but focuses on his elusiveness.