The Hoax

The Hoax is the real deal, a delicious movie treat about a guy who creates one of the biggest con jobs in history. This sharp, smart, sophisticated, and witty film—set in the early '70s—is the absolutely fascinating true story (we think) of bullshitter extraordinaire Clifford Irving (Richard Gere). Desperate to come up with a blockbuster book idea, Irving tells his publisher he has exclusive rights to collaborate with legendary reclusive billionaire Howard Hughes on his autobiography. Since Hughes never emerged in public and never commented on anything, Irving, with the help of his nervous partner in crime (Alfred Molina), thought he could make the whole thing up without anyone ever knowing. The movie has great relevance in today's tabloid-driven society, where telling the truth about the famous isn't always necessary, especially if the truth gets in the way of a better story for bigger bucks. That it all happened in the shadow of the Watergate political scandal is pure karmic coincidence, and the blurred lines between the two events are especially intriguing. Based on Irving's book of the same name, The Hoax is the tale of a grifter writer who gets so caught up in his own lie, he starts to believe it himself. Watching him pull off this ruse is the heart of the movie, and seeing how many reputable corporate types went along for the ride is unbelievable. You may think you know the outcome, but it doesn't matter. Just like Irving discovered, it's all in the telling. Gere, with dyed curly brown hair and a prosthetic nose, gets Irving's rhythms and manic energy just right. He has never been better, and gives the performance of his career. Molina is terrific, as is the fine supporting cast. Check it out. Trust us, this is no fake praise.