Based on the 1980 autobiography of the same name, it is the story of a 16 year old Frank Abagnale.Jr, played by Leonardo DiCaprio who became a master conman and one among the FBI's most wanted list before he was 21.

Even though Frank was born and raised in a loving and caring family, his life was scattered by the divorce of his parents. He ran away from home and started a three year crime spree, in which he pretended to be an airline pilot, a doctor and a lawyer and bilked various institutions and banks millions of dollars cashing forged cheques.

FBI agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks) in charge of the bank fraud division starts chasing Frank constantly, but Frank is always a step ahead to avoid his capturer. Through out the movie we can see the cat and mouse chase between Carl and Frank. Frank's charm even takes in Brenda's father (Martin Sheen) a district attorney who gives Frank a job in his office. At one point Frank falls really in love with Brenda, but when Hanratty closes in, he is forced to run again.

This movie puts some light on many aspects of life. Young Frank learned the basics of deception and fraud from his own father who emphasized "People know only what you tell them and they are cowed by an impressive uniform". That belief of 'looks could be deceiving' helped Frank throughout his fraudulent career as an impersonator. Behind all the facade, the kid in him wants to be accepted and bring his estranged parents together.

Since Titanic, this is one of DiCaprio's best movies. He impersonates the brilliant con artist who is really a kid looking for acceptance, perfectly. Oscar winner Tom Hanks is excellent. Christopher Walken as Frank's father also gives a credible performance. As usual Spielberg shows his professionalism. Overall the film is a well written, well directed, well acted, non violent, good comedy which makes an excellent holiday movie.

In real life, the real Frank Abagnale, now in his 50's works as a fraud consultant to many Fortune 500 corporations as well as the FBI. Go and see this movie, you will be charmed and entertained.