The Wizard of Lies

The Wizard of Lies

Year: 2017

Runtime: 133 mins

Language: English

Director: Barry Levinson

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A disturbing look at the rise and fall of Bernie Madoff and his devastating Ponzi scheme. The film explores how Madoff built his fraudulent empire, the widespread impact on investors and the profound consequences for his family as the truth is revealed and the scale of the betrayal comes to light.

The Wizard of Lies (2017) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at The Wizard of Lies (2017) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In the glittering corridors of Wall Street, a charismatic financier builds a reputation that spans decades, weaving together high‑stakes investment advice, philanthropy, and an aura of unshakable trust. The world he inhabits is one where glittering successes mask deeper currents, and every handshake could hide a secret that threatens to upend an entire network of investors, colleagues, and loved ones.

At the heart of the story is Bernie Madoff, a figure whose charm and authority command both admiration and unease. Surrounded by a close‑knit family—his steadfast wife Ruth and their two sons, Mark and Andrew—the narrative explores the delicate balance between public acclaim and private doubt. As the demands of his empire grow, subtle tensions begin to surface, hinting that the foundations of his success may be far more fragile than they appear.

Adding another layer of complexity, Martin London, a lawyer and family confidant, offers counsel that underscores the moral ambiguities faced by those close to power. His presence amplifies the sense that loyalty, ambition, and conscience are constantly at odds, especially when the stakes involve not just fortunes but the very integrity of relationships.

The film’s tone is unsettlingly intimate, blending the sleek veneer of high finance with a quietly mounting dread. Through measured pacing and a focus on character dynamics, it invites viewers to peer behind the polished façade and wonder what lies beneath—a world where personal bonds are tested, and the line between success and deceit becomes ever more blurred.

Last Updated: September 24, 2025 at 04:55

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The Wizard of Lies Summary

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The Wizard of Lies Summary

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The Wizard of Lies Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Wizard of Lies

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Wizard of Lies

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