Victor Lustig was an infamous criminal mastermind who managed to pull off the most remarkable con of all time. In 1925, he posed as a government official and convinced six wealthy scrap metal dealers that they had the exclusive rights to purchase the Eiffel Tower for scrap metal. Although he was arrested shortly afterwards, this didn’t stop him from becoming a folk hero in Paris.
Having grown up on the streets of Vienna, Lustig was no stranger to life’s more sordid side. He used his cunning and charm to defraud wealthy individuals, banks and even governments. His exploits earned him the nickname “The King of Con Men” and made him one of the most notorious criminals of his day.
Despite being arrested several times, Lustig always seemed to find a way out of trouble and back into a life of luxury. He indulged in expensive cars and clothes whilst living off his ill-gotten gains until his capture by Interpol in 1947 – at which point he served 10 years in prison before dying in poverty in 1947.
One thing is clear: Victor Lustig’s story is too incredible not to be told! This is why award-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney has produced an incredible documentary exploring every aspect of Lustig’s life. Through interviews with historians, law enforcement officials, journalists and members of Lustig’s family, this feature-length film captures both the glamour and danger associated with Victor’s world.
If you’re interested in learning more about Victor Lustig’s audacious scam or simply want to appreciate some truly impressive filmmaking – you won’t want to miss this documentary!
