A 23-year-old French con artist impersonates a missing American boy, convincing his family and authorities of his false identity.
“There are two sides to every lie.”
Synopsis
A 23-year-old French con artist impersonates a missing American boy, convincing his family and authorities of his false identity.
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Synopsis
In a phone box in southern Spain, Frédéric Bourdin calls the police, claiming to be a tourist who has found a lost boy. He soon impersonates Nicholas Patrick Barclay, a 13-year-old who vanished from San Antonio, Texas, in 1994. After convincing Nicholas's family of his identity, Bourdin's deception unravels, leading to an investigation by private investigator Charles Parker and FBI agent Nancy Fisher. The case raises unsettling questions about identity, trust, and the lengths to which one might go for acceptance.
What Critics Say
The GuardianThis outstanding documentary about a French conman is pure suspense from start to finish, says Peter Bradshaw.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet Frédéric Bourdin, a master of deception.
- See how a family accepted a stranger as their son.
- Follow the investigation that uncovered the truth.
Did You Know
- Frédéric Bourdin was 23 years old when he impersonated Nicholas Barclay.
- Nicholas Barclay disappeared in Texas at the age of 13 in 1994.
- Bourdin convinced Nicholas's family despite being seven years older and having dark hair.
- The film was nominated for six British Independent Film Awards.
- Bourdin claimed he had been kidnapped by military personnel from multiple countries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Frédéric Bourdin?
Frédéric Bourdin is a French confidence trickster who impersonated Nicholas Patrick Barclay, an American boy who disappeared in Texas.
What year did Nicholas Patrick Barclay disappear?
Nicholas Patrick Barclay disappeared in 1994.
What was the outcome of Bourdin's impersonation of Nicholas Barclay?
Bourdin was eventually discovered and arrested after being accepted by Barclay's family and officials, despite being seven years older and having different physical characteristics.
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