The 16 Best Movies About Frauds, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 17, 2024 16 items

The best movies about fraud offer thrilling glimpses into the lives of those who deceive others for personal gain. These films look into the minds of individuals who manipulate others for personal gain, often getting people to trust them before deceiving them.  Each film captures a different aspect of this intriguing theme keeping viewers hooked as they follow the twists and turns. 

These fraud movies showcase the complexities of human nature and the lengths people will go to achieve their goals. From high-stakes scenarios involving millions of dollars to intimate tales anchored in manipulation, these fraud movies are raise thought-provoking questions about ethics and values. 

Some notable examples include Catch Me If You Can, which chronicles the exploits of a young con man skillfully forging checks while evading capture by an FBI agent; The Wolf of Wall Street, based on the true story of a stockbroker's meteoric rise through illicit means, ultimately leading to his downfall; and The Grifters, an intense drama revolving around three con artists whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways. These exceptional films represent just a fraction of the diverse array of fraud movies.

Through captivating stories, these films shed light on the intriguing world of fraud, where duplicity reigns supreme. With remarkable performances and gripping narratives exposing very human vulnerabilities, one cannot help but be drawn further into this alluring world. 

  • Catch Me If You Can
    1

    Catch Me If You Can

    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken
    32 votes

    Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks, Catch Me If You Can is a interesting tale based on the life of notorious conman Frank Abagnale Jr. The film's masterful blend of adventure, comedy, and drama enthralls viewers as we follow the extraordinary journey of a young man who managed to deceive even hardened professionals through his sheer cunning and charm. The convincing depiction of a fraudster's life, coupled with brilliant performances from the leads, makes this movie an unforgettable experience that solidifies its place among the top movies in the genre.

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  • A History of Violence
    2

    A History of Violence

    Viggo Mortensen, Maria Bello, William Hurt
    14 votes

    Directed by David Cronenberg, A History of Violence explores the dark and twisted world of organized crime, deception, and violence. This gripping story of a seemingly ordinary man forced to confront his hidden past as a brutal criminal is not only a thrilling watch but also a profound examination of the human capacity for deceit and self-preservation. The film's intense story and powerful performances make it stand out as a paragon of the fraud genre. In conclusion, A History of Violence deserves recognition as one of the finest films about deception and its consequences.

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  • The Sting
    3

    The Sting

    Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert Shaw
    14 votes

    Set in the 1930s, The Sting follows two con men as they plot an elaborate scheme to swindle a mob boss out of his ill-gotten gains. The film expertly weaves together a complex narrative filled with humor, suspense, and intrigue, making it a classic example of cinematic storytelling at its finest. The grifters' cunning and creative methods of deception solidify the movie's status as a interesting and timeless study of the art of the con. In sum, The Sting's brilliant combination of compelling characters and masterful plot earns it a place among the best films about frauds ever made.

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  • The Wolf of Wall Street
    4

    The Wolf of Wall Street

    Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie
    18 votes

    Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, The Wolf of Wall Street offers a riveting look into the unbridled greed and corruption that plagues the world of high finance. Based on the true story of stockbroker Jordan Belfort, this exhilarating rollercoaster ride of extravagant excess and moral decay showcases how far some people will go to achieve wealth and power through fraud. With its engrossing story and memorable characters, The Wolf of Wall Street establishes itself as a must-see movie for anyone interested in exploring the dark side of ambition. The film's remarkable depiction of financial fraudulence cements its status as one of the greatest movies about deceit ever made.

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  • The Talented Mr. Ripley
    5

    The Talented Mr. Ripley

    Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law
    15 votes

    Based on Patricia Highsmith's novel, The Talented Mr. Ripley takes viewers on a chilling journey through the duplicitous mind of a social-climbing psychopath. The film's exploration of identity deception and moral ambiguity is underscored by Matt Damon's interesting performance, which leaves audiences both intrigued and repulsed by his character's ruthless quest for success. Its intricate plot and unsettling atmosphere set The Talented Mr. Ripley apart as a thought-provoking and haunting depiction of fraud. Ultimately, the film's powerful character study and gripping story make it one of the finest additions to the genre.

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  • The Grifters
    6

    The Grifters

    John Cusack, Anjelica Huston, Annette Bening
    15 votes

    Adapted from Jim Thompson's novel, The Grifters is a stylish and somber neo-noir film that delves into the lives of three con artists intertwined by fate. The movie's authentic portrayal of deceit, manipulation, and the pursuit of easy money captivates audiences and evokes a mixture of fascination and revulsion toward its morally ambiguous characters. The interplay between these scheming protagonists, combined with the film's unique visual style, gives it an enduring appeal as a raw and compelling examination of fraud. The Grifters stands out as a quintessential movie in the genre, earning its place in the annals of cinematic history.

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  • Queenpins
    7

    Queenpins

    Kristen Bell, Kirby, Paul Walter Hauser
    11 votes

    Inspired by a true story, Queenpins follows the incredible exploits of two women who create a multimillion-dollar coupon scam, outsmarting corporations and the law enforcement agencies pursuing them. The movie injects humor into its timely study of consumerism and corporate greed, delivering an entertaining glimpse into the minds of enterprising fraudsters. Queenpins' engaging story and delightful performances combine to redefine the crime-comedy genre with a uniquely feminine twist. The film's refreshing take on the world of fraud cements its place among the best movies about deception.

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  • Boiler Room
    8

    Boiler Room

    Giovanni Ribisi, Vin Diesel, Nia Long
    13 votes

    In Boiler Room, audiences are thrust into the high-stakes world of unscrupulous brokerage firms, where young and ambitious stockbrokers engage in fraudulent schemes to secure their financial success. The film's gripping portrayal of unchecked greed and the devastating effects of deceit on both the perpetrators and their victims showcases the grim realities of corporate corruption. Boiler Room's gritty atmosphere and enthralling story give it a unique appeal as a cautionary tale of fraud gone awry. The movie's unflinching look at the ugly underbelly of Wall Street solidifies its status as an unforgettable entry in the genre.

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  • Emily the Criminal
    9

    Emily the Criminal

    Aubrey Plaza, Theo Rossi, Megalyn Echikunwoke
    4 votes

    Emily the Criminal is a clever and thought-provoking indie drama that follows the titular character as she spirals into a life of crime after becoming disillusioned with the traditional workforce. The movie offers a timely examination of the blurred lines between right and wrong, as well as the underlying economic pressures that often drive individuals to commit fraud. Its compelling story, captivating lead performance, and study of the moral dilemmas faced by those who turn to crime make Emily the Criminal a standout entry in the genre. The film's unique perspective on the motivations behind fraudulence elevates it to the ranks of the best movies about frauds.

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  • The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley
    10

    The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley

    Elizabeth Holmes, Errol Morris, Dan Ariely
    7 votes

    This gripping documentary delves into the shocking downfall of Elizabeth Holmes, founder of the now-infamous biotech company Theranos. Through interviews and never-before-seen footage, The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley exposes the staggering extent of deceit that led to one of the biggest scandals in corporate history. The film's masterful storytelling and jaw-dropping revelations make it a riveting exploration of ambition, fraud, and the dark side of innovation. The Inventor's compelling account of one of the most notorious cases of corporate deceit in recent years secures its position among the best films about fraud.

  • Can You Ever Forgive Me?
    11

    Can You Ever Forgive Me?

    Melissa McCarthy, Richard E. Grant, Dolly Wells
    7 votes

    Based on a true story, Can You Ever Forgive Me? brings to life the astonishing tale of Lee Israel, a struggling writer who turns to literary forgery to make ends meet. The film's nuanced study of the motivations behind her deceptions, as well as the complex relationships she forms along the way, offers a poignant and multi-faceted depiction of fraud. With its powerful performances and captivating narrative, Can You Ever Forgive Me? emerges as a standout film that delves into the human side of deceit. Its memorable and empathetic portrayal of a flawed individual engaged in deception sets it apart as one of the best films exploring the world of frauds.

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  • Shattered Glass
    12

    Shattered Glass

    Hayden Christensen, Peter Sarsgaard, Chloë Sevigny
    7 votes

    Chronicling the real-life scandal that rocked the journalism world, Shattered Glass delves into the unraveling of Stephen Glass, a young reporter whose deceitful web of fabricated stories ultimately destroyed his career. The film skillfully portrays the dangerous allure of lies and the devastating consequences of unethical reporting, offering viewers an insightful glimpse into the darker side of the media industry. With its compelling narrative and strong performances, Shattered Glass stands out as a poignant and timely examination of journalistic fraud. This impactful film's honest depiction of professional deception elevates it to the ranks of the greatest movies about frauds.

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  • Bowfinger
    13

    Bowfinger

    Steve Martin, Eddie Murphy, Heather Graham
    10 votes

    Bowfinger is a comedy tour-de-force that follows the hilarious antics of an underdog filmmaker who goes to great lengths to deceive a major Hollywood star into unknowingly participating in his low-budget movie. This laugh-out-loud film cleverly satirizes the entertainment industry, exposing the artifice and manipulation behind the scenes. Bowfinger's unique blend of humor, heart, and satirical insight makes it a prime example of the enduring appeal of comedic tales of fraud. The movie's witty take on the lengths people will go to for success in showbiz solidifies its place among the best films about deception.

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  • Arbitrage
    14

    Arbitrage

    Richard Gere, Tim Roth, Susan Sarandon
    6 votes

    In Arbitrage, Richard Gere stars as a charismatic billionaire who becomes embroiled in a high-stakes web of deceit after making a series of catastrophic financial decisions. The film expertly delves into the world of white-collar crime, exposing the corruption and lies hidden beneath the veneer of power and wealth. Its taut and suspenseful storytelling, coupled with Gere's magnetic performance, makes Arbitrage a compelling cinematic journey that brings the world of financial fraud to life. The movie's skillful examination of greed and duplicity in the upper echelons of society establishes it as a standout in the genre of films about frauds.

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  • The Wizard of Lies
    15

    The Wizard of Lies

    Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Alessandro Nivola
    13 votes

    The Wizard of Lies chronicles the rise and fall of Bernie Madoff, the man behind the largest Ponzi scheme in history. This interesting HBO film explores the depths of deception and betrayal perpetrated by Madoff, offering an unflinching look at the devastating impact his actions had on countless lives. With its compelling narrative, insightful character study, and powerhouse performances, The Wizard of Lies shines a light on the dark world of financial fraud. This engrossing portrayal of one of the most infamous cases of modern-day deception cements its place among the best films about frauds.

  • The Big Short
    16

    The Big Short

    Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale
    8 votes

    Based on the bestselling book by Michael Lewis, The Big Short provides a fascinating and sobering look at the events leading up to the 2008 global financial crisis. Through its innovative storytelling techniques and strong ensemble cast, the film illustrates the complex web of deceit and corruption that permeated the housing market, resulting in economic catastrophe. The Big Short's compelling blend of drama, comedy, and education makes it an unforgettable exploration of the world of financial fraud. Its masterful treatment of a complex and timely subject matter secures its position as one of the top films about deceit ever made.

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