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Deep Dive: The Imposter (2012)

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The Imposter
The Imposter is a documentary about Frédéric Bourdin, a French con artist who impersonated Nicholas Patrick Barclay, an American boy who went missing in Texas in 1994. The film recounts Bourdin's elaborate deception, starting with his phone call to the police in Spain claiming to have found a lost boy. He uses records to contact U.S. agencies and eventually convinces Barclay's family that he is their missing son, despite significant physical differences. Directed by Bart Layton, the film features interviews with Bourdin and Barclay's family, as well as archival footage and reenactments. It details how Bourdin's impersonation fooled officials and family members, leading to his acceptance into the Barclay household. The truth is uncovered through the efforts of a private investigator and an FBI agent, culminating in Bourdin's arrest and the revelation of his criminal history.

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.

Perfect For

True crime enthusiastsPsychological thrillersImpersonation stories