The allure of the con game has always captivated audiences, offering a thrilling blend of deception, strategy, and often, a touch of moral ambiguity. This collection of films dives deep into the world of cons, scams, and elaborate schemes, showcasing the art of the hustle in various settings and eras. Whether it's the high-stakes world of Wall Street or the gritty underbelly of street-level swindles, these movies provide not just entertainment but also a fascinating look into human psychology and the lengths to which people will go for money, power, or revenge. Here are ten must-watch con drama films that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Sting (1973)
Description: Set in the 1930s, this film follows two grifters who set up an elaborate con against a mob boss. Its intricate plot and period charm make it a classic in the genre.
Fact: The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and its score by Marvin Hamlisch became iconic.


House of Games (1987)
Description: A psychiatrist gets involved in the world of con artists, leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse.
Fact: This was David Mamet's directorial debut, and the film is often studied for its portrayal of cons.


The Grifters (1990)
Description: A dark tale of three con artists whose lives intertwine in a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder. The film delves into the psychological aspects of conning.
Fact: Anjelica Huston won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her role.


The Spanish Prisoner (1997)
Description: A complex tale of corporate espionage and con artistry, where an inventor is lured into a web of deceit by a mysterious stranger.
Fact: The film is known for its intricate plot and David Mamet's signature dialogue.


The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Description: A psychological thriller where a young man assumes the identity of a wealthy acquaintance, leading to a series of cons and murders.
Fact: Matt Damon's performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination.


Ocean's Eleven (2001)
Description: A modern classic, this film features a group of expert thieves planning an elaborate heist in Las Vegas. It's all about the thrill of the con and the camaraderie among the crew.
Fact: The film was a remake of the 1960 Rat Pack movie of the same name.


Catch Me If You Can (2002)
Description: Based on the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., this film explores the life of a young con artist who impersonates various professionals to cash fraudulent checks.
Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks both received Golden Globe nominations for their performances.


Matchstick Men (2003)
Description: A con artist with obsessive-compulsive disorder takes on a new apprentice, leading to unexpected twists and turns in their schemes.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by Eric Garcia, and Nicolas Cage's performance was critically acclaimed.


The Brothers Bloom (2008)
Description: Two brothers, lifelong con artists, pull off one last heist, but things get complicated when one brother falls for their mark.
Fact: The film features a whimsical, almost fairy-tale-like narrative style, making it stand out in the genre.


The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: While not a traditional con film, it showcases the grand scale of financial manipulation and the con of Wall Street itself.
Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
