Telling Lies in America Poster

Telling Lies in America 1997

★ 5.743 votes101 min📅 1997-08-02

"Just don't get caught."

Set against the neon-soaked streets of 1960s Cleveland, *Telling Lies in America* (1997) follows Karchy Jonas, a sharp-witted 17-year-old who dreams of escaping his working-class life.

Director: Guy Ferland

Cast

Kevin Bacon
Kevin Bacon
Billy Magic
Brad Renfro
Brad Renfro
Karchy 'Chucky' Jonas
Maximilian Schell
Maximilian Schell
Dr. Istvan Jonas
Calista Flockhart
Calista Flockhart
Diney Majeski
Tony Devon
Tony Devon
Danny Hogan
Paul Dooley
Paul Dooley
Father Norton
Jonathan Rhys Meyers
Jonathan Rhys Meyers
Kevin Boyle
Luke Wilson
Luke Wilson
Henry
Damen Fletcher
Amos
Jerry Swindall
Jerry Swindall
Andy "Croak" Stas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Telling Lies in America (1997) about?

The film centers on Karchy Jonas, a Cleveland teenager who idolizes a radio DJ and gets entangled in the corrupt side of the music industry. As he chases success, he learns that lies can spiral out of control, blurring the line between fantasy and reality.

Who directed Telling Lies in America?

The film was directed by Guy Ferland, known for his work in television and film, bringing a gritty authenticity to the story.

Who stars in Telling Lies in America?

The cast features Kevin Bacon as Billy Magic, Brad Renfro as Karchy Jonas, Maximilian Schell, Calista Flockhart, and Tony Devon in key roles.

Is Telling Lies in America (1997) worth watching?

With its compelling performances and sharp social commentary, *Telling Lies in America* is a solid drama for fans of 1960s-set stories. While not a blockbuster, its themes of ambition and moral compromise make it a thought-provoking watch.

How long is Telling Lies in America?

The movie runs for 101 minutes, offering a tight, engaging narrative without unnecessary filler.

About Telling Lies in America (1997) — A 1960s drama of ambition, payola, and the cost of chasing fame

Set against the neon-soaked streets of 1960s Cleveland, *Telling Lies in America* (1997) follows Karchy Jonas, a sharp-witted 17-year-old who dreams of escaping his working-class life. His world turns upside down when he crosses paths with Billy Magic, a charismatic radio DJ idolized by millions. What begins as innocent admiration spirals into a murky underworld of payola, deception, and the seductive allure of fame, forcing Karchy to navigate a landscape where truth is negotiable and loyalty comes at a price.

Directed by Guy Ferland with a keen eye for period detail, this drama thrives on its moral complexity and the tension between ambition and integrity. Kevin Bacon delivers a magnetic performance as Billy Magic, while Brad Renfro shines as Karchy, capturing the raw energy of youth clashing with cynicism. With its biting critique of the entertainment industry's shadowy dealings, *Telling Lies in America* (1997) is a coming-of-age story soaked in nostalgia and disillusionment.