Lying and Stealing

Lying and Stealing, a 2019 American heist comedy film, follows the story of Ivan, a skilled art thief who has grown tired of his life of crime. Ivan's exceptional talent for swindling and deceiving has earned him a fortune, but it's come at a great cost. The weight of his illicit lifestyle has left him feeling empty, and he longs to break free from the cycle of theft and betrayal. As Ivan navigates the complex world of art forgery, he encounters a charming con woman named Zara. With her quick wit, seductive charm, and unparalleled skill in deception, Zara is the perfect partner for Ivan's next big score. Together, they concoct a plan to steal a valuable collection of rare and priceless artwork, owned by a wealthy business magnate. The collection, known as the "Seven Wonders," is said to be worth millions, and Ivan sees this as the perfect opportunity to retire from his life of crime. Zara, on the other hand, sees this as a chance to prove her worth and cement her status as the best con artist in the business. As Ivan and Zara begin to plan the heist, they must navigate a web of complexities and obstacles. They need to gain access to the mansion, avoid the security cameras, and stay one step ahead of the police. Ivan's expertise and Zara's cunning make them a formidable team, but their differing motivations and personalities create tension and conflict. Ivan's desire to leave his past behind creates an internal struggle, as he must confront the consequences of his actions and the damage he has caused to those around him. Zara, on the other hand, is driven by a need for validation and recognition, and she sees this heist as her ticket to legitimacy. As the stakes grow higher, Ivan and Zara find themselves entwined in a dance of cat and mouse. They must use their wits and charm to stay ahead of their mark and avoid detection. Along the way, they engage in witty banter and flirtatious repartee, hinting at a deeper connection between them. The action unfolds in a series of cleverly choreographed scenes, showcasing the duo's skills in art forgery, disguise, and deception. From manipulating art historians to forging signature, Ivan and Zara showcase their exceptional talents, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish fact from fiction. The film takes a turn for the darker as the heist takes shape. Ivan's past begins to catch up with him, and he is forced to confront the true nature of his existence. Zara, too, is revealed to have a hidden agenda, pushing Ivan to question her true motives and their partnership. As the dust settles, Ivan and Zara find themselves caught in a web of their own making. The heist has been pulled off, but at what cost? Ivan is left to weigh the pros and cons of his decision to leave his past behind, while Zara must confront the emptiness that lies beneath her façade of confidence. In the end, Lying and Stealing presents a complex exploration of identity, loyalty, and redemption. Through Ivan and Zara's unlikely partnership, the film poses questions about the true cost of living a lie and the difficulty of breaking free from the patterns of the past. With its witty dialogue, clever plot twists, and charming performances, Lying and Stealing is a captivating tale of two con artists navigating the high-stakes world of art forgery and deception.