F for Fake

film by Welles

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July 17, 2026

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F for Fake (1973) is an "essay film" by Orson Welles that explores the nature of truth in art. The film incorporates documentary footage of art forger Elmyr de Hory and his biographer Clifford Irving. Welles also included his own fakes, such as the infamous The War of the Worlds broadcast, and his fascination with magic. The film's intricate editing took a year to complete. Welles is renowned for his innovative narrative techniques, photography, dramatic lighting, and music, most notably in Citizen Kane.12

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Orson Welles
Later films: Chimes at Midnight, The Other Side of the Wind, and F for Fake
F for Fake (1973) was an “essay film” (as Welles called it) about the nature of truth in art. The film had its basis in documentary footage shot by François-Arnold Reichenbach of art forger Elmyr de Hory and his biographer Clifford Irving. As Welles started…
Read More
F for Fake (1973) was an “essay film” (as Welles called it) about the nature of truth in art. The film had its basis in documentary footage shot by François-Arnold Reichenbach of art forger Elmyr de Hory and his biographer Clifford Irving. As Welles started…
Read More