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If you’ve been itching to rewatch Catch Me If You Can, you’re in luck!
Starting December 1, 2024, Steven Spielberg‘s thrilling masterpiece will stream exclusively on Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming platform.
This is great news for fans and newcomers alike, offering a chance to dive back into one of the most captivating true crime stories brought to life on screen.
Whether you’ve seen it a dozen times or are discovering it for the first time, Frank Abagnale Jr.’s tale is ready to keep you on the edge of your seat all over again.
Carry on to discover additional details!
The Story That Never Gets Old
Catch Me If You Can isn’t just any crime drama—it’s a fascinating true story.
It tells the incredible true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a teenager who, before even turning 19, managed to successfully impersonate a doctor, lawyer, and airline pilot, evading the law for years.
What makes the story so compelling is not just Frank’s audacity, but the emotional depth of his character.
His crimes are motivated by a need for recognition and belonging, making him both a brilliant con artist and a deeply human figure.
On the other side of the chase is Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks), the determined FBI agent.
Hanratty is methodical and rule-driven, while Frank is chaotic and spontaneous, creating a thrilling dynamic between the two.
Their relationship evolves from a simple pursuit to one of mutual respect and empathy, with Hanratty beginning to see Frank as more than just a criminal.
This dynamic adds emotional weight to the film. Blending drama, suspense, and humor, Spielberg’s direction keeps the story engaging and fresh, even two decades later.
The sharp wit and the evolving bond between Frank and Carl elevate the narrative, ensuring that the film remains a timeless classic of deception and human connection.
Why This Movie Still Captivates
1. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Breakthrough Role
By the time Catch Me If You Can was released in 2002, Leonardo DiCaprio was already a household name, thanks to his breakout roles in Titanic (1997) and The Beach (2000).
However, his portrayal of Frank Abagnale Jr. in this film elevated his career even further, showcasing his range as an actor.
DiCaprio had long shed the “heartthrob” image of his early career, and his performance as the charming yet vulnerable young con artist was a revelation.
His ability to balance the character’s manipulative and empathetic sides made Frank feel like a fully realized person, rather than just a mere trickster.
Critics praised DiCaprio’s ability to inject both humor and pathos into his performance, creating a complex character that audiences could root for, despite his crimes.
His portrayal earned him several accolades and demonstrated that he was far more than a pretty face, solidifying his place as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.
Tom Hanks, a two-time Academy Award winner by 2002, brings a grounded yet dynamic performance to the role of Carl Hanratty, the no-nonsense FBI agent chasing Frank Abagnale.
Hanratty’s single-minded pursuit of Frank could easily have been portrayed as one-dimensional, but Hanks adds unexpected depth to the character.
His portrayal blends determination with vulnerability, which shines through as the agent’s admiration for Frank grows, despite their adversarial relationship.
Hanks also injects moments of dry humor and warmth, creating a balanced performance that never feels overly serious or too light.
The interplay between Hanks and DiCaprio’s characters is one of the film’s core strengths.
Their dynamic, full of tension, respect, and even moments of understanding, drives the emotional heart of the movie.
The mentorship aspect of their relationship, especially as Hanratty begins to empathize with Frank, is played with a subtle grace by Hanks, adding another layer to the film’s narrative.
3. A Critical Darling
Catch Me If You Can was not just a commercial hit—it was also met with critical acclaim.
With a 96% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film was lauded for its engaging storytelling, exceptional performances, and Spielberg’s direction.
The film grossed over $352 million worldwide, a testament to its broad appeal and lasting popularity.
It became one of Spielberg’s standout works, often cited alongside his more well-known blockbusters.
The movie earned multiple award nominations, including Golden Globe and BAFTA nods for both DiCaprio and Hanks, with Spielberg receiving recognition for his masterful direction.
Many critics described the film as a perfect blend of heart and suspense, with Spielberg’s ability to balance light-hearted moments with deeper emotional beats being particularly praised.
Catch Me If You Can is frequently mentioned as one of Spielberg’s finest films, standing out in his illustrious career for its emotional complexity, sharp humor, and riveting story.
Its success at the box office and with critics alike solidified it as one of the most memorable films of the early 2000s.
Why You Should Tune In
There’s something special about revisiting a classic, especially one as well-crafted as Catch Me If You Can.
Whether you’re watching for DiCaprio’s transformative performance, Hanks’ steady brilliance, or just the thrill of a great true story, this film promises a rewarding experience.
So, grab some popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and let Frank Abagnale’s incredible journey captivate you all over again.
What’s Coming To Peacock in December 2024
Peacock’s December offerings also include:
Title/Feature
Release Date
Details
Catch Me If You Can
December 1
Steven Spielberg’s classic starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks debuts on Peacock.
The Day of the Jackal (Season Finale)
December 4
The thrilling finale of the political assassination drama.
Girls Gone Wild: The Untold Story
December 4
A documentary series revealing the untold stories behind the iconic brand.
Laid
December 6
A new series that blends dark comedy with quirky romance.
Paris & Nicole: The Encore
December 7
A new chapter for the famous duo, exploring their evolving friendship.
Speak No Evil
December 10
A chilling psychological horror film.
Premier League Multiview
December 4
A new feature on Peacock to stream Premier League matches in multiple views.
Peacock will be packed with a mix of suspenseful dramas, intriguing documentaries, and exciting sports features throughout the month!
Conclusion
With Catch Me If You Can now available to stream on Peacock starting December 1, 2024, there’s no better time to dive back into this iconic film.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time viewer, Frank Abagnale Jr.’s fascinating true story—full of wit, heart, and suspense—remains just as captivating today as when it first graced the big screen.
Leonardo DiCaprio’s breakout role as the charming con artist and Tom Hanks’ unwavering FBI agent make this film a perfect blend of drama and humor, with both actors delivering unforgettable performances.
Peacock is not just bringing this classic film to its platform—it’s also enhancing its library with a range of exciting content this December, including The Day of the Jackal season finale, Girls Gone Wild: The Untold Story, and more.
The new Premier League Multiview feature starting December 4 will also give sports fans a whole new way to enjoy live matches.
So, whether you’re rewatching Frank’s brilliant schemes or experiencing them for the first time, Catch Me If You Can offers the perfect mix of suspense, comedy, and heart.
With more great content lined up for the month, Peacock is sure to be your go-to destination for entertainment this December.