The Con Is On (2018) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie takes place primarily in two locations: London, where con artists Harry and Peter begin their scheme, and Los Angeles, where they relocate to execute their heist. Beverly Hills serves as the backdrop for their chaotic attempt to reclaim their fortunes, representing the glitz and glamour that masks their darker intentions.

• london
• los angeles
• beverly hills
• setting
• locations

Harry and Peter flee to Los Angeles to escape their debt to dangerous London gangster Irina Solokov. They choose the city as a backdrop for plotting their heist to steal precious jewels, believing the distance and different environment will help them devise a complex plan to reclaim their fortunes while evading their relentless creditor.

• escape
• los angeles
• heist
• irina solokov

The movie takes place in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal issues such as the dangers of gambling and the pursuit of wealth through dubious means. The characters navigate a world where crime and deception are rampant, highlighting the moral ambiguity of their choices.

• contemporary
• modern
• time period
• settings

Deception is central to 'The Con Is On,' as Harry and Peter rely on their skills as con artists to survive. Their elaborate schemes reveal the lengths they will go to escape their troubles, but also the fallout of their dishonest actions. This theme is mirrored in their interactions with other characters who are equally entangled in deceit, creating a world where everyone is playing some kind of con.

• deception
• con artists
• schemes
• theme

Betrayal underscores the relationships within the film, particularly between Harry, Peter, Jackie, and the gangster Irina Solokov. The revelation of unfaithfulness and hidden agendas leads to explosive confrontations, ultimately complicating their plans and deepening the personal conflicts among all characters involved.

• betrayal
• relationships
• conflict
• theme

Greed drives the characters' motivations, propelling them into a dangerous world of crime and exploitation. Their obsession with wealth leads to reckless decisions and the deterioration of relationships, illustrating how the pursuit of material gain can corrupt and destroy. The comedy stems from watching greedy characters fail spectacularly.

• greed
• wealth
• corruption
• theme
• money

Harry Fox (played by Uma Thurman) is a savvy and resourceful con artist who is keen on schemes to escape her precarious lifestyle. Her strategic thinking often drives the duo's plans, but her choices are mired in selfishness and impulsive decisions. She displays a blend of charm and cunning, showcasing her ability to manipulate situations, while also revealing vulnerability in her relationships.

• harry fox
• uma thurman
• con artist
• protagonist

Peter Fox (played by Tim Roth) is Harry's partner in crime, equally adept at deception but often reflects a sense of melancholy regarding their reckless lifestyle. His interactions with other characters, especially Irina and Jackie, suggest a yearning for personal connection overshadowed by his chaotic environment. His loyalty to Harry is evident, yet he struggles with the consequences of their choices.

• peter fox
• tim roth
• con artist
• partner

Irina Solokov (played by Maggie Q) is a dangerous gangster who is owed money by Harry and Peter. She harbors complex feelings for Harry and deep anger towards Peter, driving her relentless pursuit of the duo. Her formidable nature balances professional ruthlessness with personal vulnerabilities, making her a formidable antagonist throughout the film.

• irina solokov
• maggie q
• gangster
• antagonist
• villain

Sidney (played by Stephen Fry) is a morally ambiguous priest who plays a crucial role in facilitating Harry and Peter's criminal activities. His opportunistic traits shine as he navigates his double life, offering them a precarious lifeline while simultaneously putting their lives in danger. His character embodies the theme of hypocrisy inherent in the film.

• sidney
• stephen fry
• priest
• hypocrisy
• supporting character

Jackie (played by Alice Eve) represents the socialite caught in a web of deceit and betrayal, particularly in her turbulent relationship with Gabriel. Her conflict with Harry and Peter adds layers to her character, revealing her desperation amidst the chaos. She is portrayed as both a victim of circumstance and a catalyst for the film's pivotal moments.

• jackie
• alice eve
• socialite
• relationship
• supporting character

The film maintains a light, comedic tone driven by the genre and the protagonists' constant, unserious scheming, despite the underlying threat of a gangster. The fast-paced narrative prioritizes chaotic energy and humorous complications over deep emotional stakes. While there is consistent action and threat, the overall emotional weight remains light and the consequences are played more for farce than genuine drama.

• comedy
• tone
• farce
• humor
• style