The movie Six Degrees of Separation follows the story of Paul, a young, gay black con artist who is able to talk his way into the lives of a white, upper-class New York family by claiming to be the son of the famous actor Sidney Poitier. The movie is based on a true story and explores themes of identity, class, and society's obsession with celebrity.
Paul is initially welcomed into the Kittredge family's luxurious apartment after claiming to have been mugged and looking for a place to stay. He impresses the couple, Flan and Ouisa, with his knowledge of art and culture, and claims to have connections to famous people, including Sidney Poitier.
As Paul becomes more involved in the Kittredge's lives, he manipulates them into believing that he can help them with their business dealings and personal relationships. However, when Ouisa and Flan discover the truth about Paul's identity, they confront him, and his carefully constructed facade begins to unravel.
The movie is a commentary on the class divide in America and the ways in which people are willing to believe in and be manipulated by those who appear to be more cultured or sophisticated. It also explores the concepts of identity and the desire to belong, as Paul's actions are motivated by his own feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Six Degrees of Separation features an all-star cast, including Will Smith in his breakout role as Paul, Stockard Channing and Donald Sutherland as the Kittredges, and Ian McKellen in a supporting role. The movie was critically acclaimed and received numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Stockard Channing's performance.