Dirty Rotten Scoundrels 1988
"Nice guys finish last. Meet the winners."
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988), directed by Frank Oz, is a razor-sharp comedy-crime romp set in the sun-drenched playground of a French Riviera resort town.
Director: Frank Oz
Cast
Steve Martin
Freddy Benson
Michael Caine
Lawrence Jamieson
Glenne Headly
Janet Colgate
Anton Rodgers
Inspector Andre
Barbara Harris
Fanny Eubanks
Ian McDiarmid
Arthur
Dana Ivey
Mrs. Reed
Meagen Fay
Lady from Oklahoma
Frances Conroy
Lady from Palm Beach
Nicole Calfan
Lady in Dining Car
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988) about?
This 1988 comedy follows two rival con artists—Lawrence Jamieson, a smooth British swindler, and Freddy Benson, a loud American hustler—as they compete in a winner-takes-all scheme to swindle a wealthy heiress. The stakes are high, the schemes are elaborate, and the laughs are even higher as their battle of wits unfolds in the glamorous setting of the French Riviera.
Who directed Dirty Rotten Scoundrels?
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels was directed by Frank Oz, known for his work in both comedy and fantasy films, including *The Dark Crystal* and *Little Shop of Horrors*.
Who stars in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels?
The film stars comedy legends Steve Martin and Michael Caine as the rival con men, alongside Glenne Headly as their unsuspecting mark, and Anton Rodgers and Barbara Harris in key supporting roles.
Is Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988) worth watching?
Absolutely—Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a standout comedy-crime film thanks to its sharp writing, charismatic leads, and clever plot twists. With its blend of sophistication and slapstick, it's a perfect pick for fans of witty, high-stakes storytelling. The chemistry between Steve Martin and Michael Caine alone makes it worth the watch.
How long is Dirty Rotten Scoundrels?
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels runs for 110 minutes, or roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988) — A Comedy Classic of Deception and High-Stakes Hustling
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988), directed by Frank Oz, is a razor-sharp comedy-crime romp set in the sun-drenched playground of a French Riviera resort town. The film follows master con artist Lawrence Jamieson (Michael Caine), who has built a luxurious lifestyle swindling wealthy tourists with his elaborate schemes. His peaceful existence is upended when brash American hustler Freddy Benson (Steve Martin) rolls into town, using crude tactics that threaten to expose Lawrence's refined operation. Determined to outshine his unpolished rival, Lawrence challenges Freddy to a high-stakes duel: the first to swindle a wealthy heiress (Glenne Headly) wins, while the loser must leave town forever. The battle of wits unfolds against a backdrop of glamour, deception, and hilarious chaos, where every smile hides a lie and every handshake could be a trap.
With its razor-edged wit and irresistible charm, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988) delivers a masterclass in comedic crime, blending the sophistication of European deception with the raw energy of American hustling. The film's themes of rivalry, ego, and the art of the con are elevated by standout performances from Steve Martin and Michael Caine, whose electric chemistry makes every twist and turn a delight. The lavish settings and clever plotting create an atmosphere of playful danger, where the line between predator and prey blurs with every scheme.
