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Deep Dive: F for Fake (1973)

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F for Fake
F for Fake is a 1973 docudrama directed by Orson Welles, focusing on the life of Elmyr de Hory, a professional art forger. The film presents de Hory's recounting of his experiences in the art world, where he sold numerous fake paintings to museums and collectors globally. Welles uses de Hory's story as a framework to question the concepts of authorship and authenticity in art, while also reflecting on the nature of deception in society. The film features Welles, Oja Kodar, and Clifford Irving, who authored a biography of de Hory titled Fake. Welles intertwines their narratives, examining the irony of Irving's own forgery of a biography about Howard Hughes. The film's structure is non-linear and includes elements of magic and performance, with Welles asserting that everything presented will be based on solid fact, even as he plays with the boundaries of truth and illusion.

Why Watch

  • •Watch Orson Welles perform magic tricks for children.
  • •See the story of art forger Elmyr de Hory unfold.
  • •Meet Clifford Irving, a biographer who created a famous forgery.

Did You Know

•The film runs for 89 minutes and was released in 1973.
•Orson Welles performed magic tricks for children at the film's opening.
•Clifford Irving, featured in the film, forged a biography of Howard Hughes.
•Welles shot a nine-minute short film in 1976 that contains original material.

Perfect For

Art forgery enthusiastsFans of Orson WellesDocumentary film lovers