The Hoax

(2006)

The Hoax, released in 2006, tells the gripping story of Clifford Irving's audacious attempt to deceive the world. Set in the early 1970s, Irving, a struggling writer, finds himself in dire need of money after his latest novel is rejected by McGraw-Hill. In a desperate bid to secure financial stability, Irving concocts an elaborate plan: he claims to have Howard Hughes's cooperation in writing Hughes's autobiography.

Against the backdrop of Nixon's reelection calculations, Irving teams up with his friend Dick Suskind to carry out extensive research and stumbles upon a manuscript written by a longtime Hughes associate. Exploiting corporate greed, Irving's quick-thinking and brazen behavior allow him to manipulate the situation to his advantage.

Adding to the complexity of his scheme, Irving must navigate a crumbling marriage and resist the allure of his former mistress, Nina Van Pallandt. As he continues to push forward with his deception, Irving capitalizes on Hughes's aversion to public attention.

The Hoax offers a suspenseful and thrilling exploration of Irving's audacity and the lengths to which one man will go for success and recognition. Inspired by true events, this film is a testament to the power of deception and the human desire for fame and fortune.