Six Degrees of Separation (1993) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The film takes place on Fifth Avenue in New York City, a renowned street famous for upscale shopping, cultural institutions, and its vibrant art scene. This location symbolizes wealth and social status, serving as a fitting backdrop for the lives of the Kittredges, who are immersed in high society.

• fifth avenue
• new york
• setting
• location
• upper east side

The film is set in the contemporary era of the late 20th century, during a time when elite social circles were fascinated with wealth, status, and the complexities of human relationships. This period provides the context for exploring themes of identity and deception.

• 1990s
• contemporary
• time period
• 1993
• late 20th century

Fifth Avenue represents the pinnacle of luxury and social prestige in New York. Its luxurious atmosphere highlights the contrasts between extreme wealth and the deceptive nature of Paul's infiltration into the Kittredges' world, emphasizing the story's exploration of class and identity.

• fifth avenue
• new york
• wealth
• social status
• setting

Deception is the central theme, exemplified by Paul's cunning manipulation of the Kittredges. His ability to weave intricate lies showcases the allure and dangers of charm, demonstrating how easily one can be drawn into a false reality when seduced by charisma and status.

• deception
• paul
• manipulation
• trust
• con artist

Betrayal is profoundly felt when the Kittredges realize their trust in Paul was misplaced. His presence, initially invigorating and enchanting, ultimately leaves them feeling vulnerable and deceived, exploring the emotional ramifications of betrayal within a social context.

• betrayal
• trust
• Kittredges
• emotional impact
• vulnerability

The backdrop of art and aesthetics reflects the Kittredges' lifestyle and aspirations. Paul's artistic charm enhances their social engagements, while the art world serves as both a refuge and a battleground for identity and perception, influencing relationships and status.

• art
• aesthetics
• art dealer
• Flan
• culture
• sophistication

Ouisa Kittredge embodies privilege and sophistication, balancing an elite social life with a keen interest in the arts. She is deeply drawn to Paul's charm but ultimately experiences a profound betrayal that challenges her worldview, illustrating the vulnerabilities of high society.

• Ouisa Kittredge
• character
• art collector
• privilege
• betrayal

Flan Kittredge is a cultured art dealer navigating the complexities of his high-status lifestyle alongside his wife Ouisa. He is initially captivated by Paul's wit but is forced to confront the harsh realities of trust and deception within their social circle.

• Flan Kittredge
• art dealer
• character
• wealth
• authenticity

Paul is a master manipulator whose charm conceals a deceptive nature, allowing him to infiltrate the Kittredges' lives. He displays sharp wit, sophistication, and culinary skills, raising questions about identity, privilege, and the fragile nature of trust within social structures.

• Paul
• con artist
• manipulator
• charm
• identity
• deception

The film examines the intersection of class and identity through Paul's infiltration of wealthy elite society. His ability to pose as a cultured, connected individual exposes how easily perceptions of status can be manipulated, challenging the Kittredges' understanding of themselves and others.

• class
• identity
• social status
• privilege
• race
• social structures

Flan and Ouisa Kittredge are a married couple immersed in New York's elite art world. Their relationship is defined by shared sophisticated tastes and social standing, but their investment in Paul tests their marriage and forces them to confront their own vulnerabilities and perceptions.

• Flan
• Ouisa
• marriage
• relationship
• Kittredges
• couple