Six Degrees of Separation

Ouisa Kittredge and her husband Flan are portrayed as an affluent couple living in New York City. They enjoy a high-society lifestyle, boasting about their children studying in prestigious institutions.

One evening, Paul, a mysterious young man, appears at the Kittredge's doorstep. He presents himself as a close friend of their children, claiming to be the son of the famous Sidney Poitier and arrives injured and bleeding.

Impressed by Paul's charm and sophistication, Ouisa and Flan invite him into their home. They are captivated by his knowledge of literature and art, finding his company refreshing amidst their social circle.

Paul flatters the Kittredges, extolling their luxurious lifestyle and impeccable taste. In their desire to help someone they believe to be in need, Ouisa and Flan lend him money, further deepening their trust in him.

The situation takes a dramatic turn when Paul brings home a hustler, adding an unexpected layer of complexity to his persona. This event serves as a critical catalyst that leads the Kittredges to question Paul's intentions.

As the night unfolds, Ouisa and Flan begin to realize that Paul's portrayal of himself is nothing but a façade. The couple discovers that they have become victims of a narcissistic con artist, leading to feelings of betrayal.

Stunned and heartbroken by the truth, the Kittredges decide to expel Paul from their lives. They confront the emotional turmoil that his brief presence has caused, feeling both anger and nostalgia.

Despite expelling Paul, his impact lingers in the Kittredge household. Conversations about Paul become a thrilling subject at their cocktail parties, surrounded by an air of intrigue and fascination among their elite friends.

As the Kittredges share their experience with Paul at social gatherings, he transforms into a figure of gossip and enchantment. Many of their friends become fascinated by the story of the charming con artist and what he represented.

Ultimately, Paul leaves a profound and complex impact on Ouisa and Flan, forcing them to reflect on their lives and the nature of trust. They grapple with the lessons learned from being deceived and question their own perceptions.

Paul's fleeting presence continues to resonate in their lives long after he has gone. Ouisa's insistence that she will not become a statistic underscores her desire to regain control over her narrative and seek deeper authenticity.