The Breakup: Being a con artist had improved Stevens life immeasurably. Hed lived a comfortable life, riding around in expensive cars, wearing elegant suits, and dining in the finest restaurants Miami provided. His ability to lie, impersonate, and forge gained him prosperity in every aspect of his life except one: love. It was only after being caught and imprisoned for his crimes that he met the love of his life. Phillip, a fellow convict, began an unexpected relationship with Steven that seemed tender and loving despite their harsh circumstances. Their relationship continued to flourish upon their release. Stevens second arrest, for embezzling company funds, also landed an uninvolved Phillip back in prison as a suspected accomplice. Phillip fumed as both men were held in a police station waiting area. You were supposed to protect me. But you just did nothing but make a fool out of me. And you expect me to love you? Phillips words left Steven in rubble. He remained silent, only later to reveal that he would never see Phillip again. What Makes It So Brilliantly Devastating: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZA4NAhqKug Stevens ability to lie was often used as a survival mechanism. He lied to obtain money, power, and love throughout the film. It can be difficult to maintain the intricate system of deception he crafted, and it inevitably unraveled like a ball of yarn. His biggest con might have been played on himself; by the end, he was unable to differentiate between the stories he told himself and what had actually happened. When truth and fiction became indistinguishable, Phillip denounced their entire relationship. I dont even think you know who you are. So how am I supposed to love something that dont even exist, you tell me. It was the first time Steven had ever been seen for what he truly was: nothing. And isnt that the greatest fear of any person, really?
