Why Would I Lie? (1980)

Cletus is a compulsive liar. He prefers the term 'fabrication' to lie though. When Cletus becomes a social worker he's assigned the case of a boy called Jorge (with a 'J') who was taken from his mother. Cletus sets out to reunite Jorge with his mother, but to do so he has to fabricate many a story to keep Jorge from being adopted. In search of the mother, Cletus meets and falls in love with a women's advice councillor.

Introduction
"Why Would I Lie?" is a 1980 drama-comedy film directed by Larry Peerce, starring Treat Williams, Lisa Eichhorn, and Gabriel Macht. The movie is circulated around the life of a man who evaluates the limits of reality to live a fulfilling life. In spite of his routine lies, he postures a good-hearted nature, specifically towards a little lady who is orphaned.

Plot Summary
The movie follows the character Cletus, played by Treat Williams, who is a creative kid well-being employee. Cletus is seen in the film taking unusual techniques to discover brand-new adoptive homes for all children under his care. He is a ruthless dreamer, a regular liar, and a charming manipulator who uses his verbal capabilities to control truths into stories that will allow the children to be positioned into homes much faster. Likewise, he assures the reluctant receivers of his fabrications with the comforting expression, "Why would I lie?"

The main focus of the story is on his involvement with six-year-old Jorge, who's been residing in an organization because birth, and his older sister Ginnie, played by Lisa Eichhorn. Cletus becomes attached to the lovely and bright Jorge, and after finding out that the kid's estranged uncle will not embrace him, Cletus chooses to falsify papers to take custody of him.

Disputes and Resolutions
Cletus' lie gets complexed when he falls for Ginnie and wants to form a family with her and Jorge. But his predicted lie exposes when the child's genuine uncle ends up thinking about claiming custody of him. The conflict forces Cletus to face his habitual lying, questioning whether he can remain sincere to preserve the household he has actually concerned like.

Conclusion
In the end, the film looks into the morality and repercussion of lying, especially through an individual whose objectives may be virtuous, however whose approaches are sly. At the conclusion, Cletus surrenders his custody claim, however not after demonstrating to the uncle the love and affection that Jorge needs.

Character Development
"What Would I Lie?" is an outstanding display of Treat William's acting abilities as Cletus. The story carefully unfolds his lying practices funneling it to dedication and love towards disadvantaged children. Meanwhile, Ginnie's character, initially resentful and cold towards her brother due to their mom's desertion, became warmer and more understanding as the film progresses.

Cinematic design and Reception
"Why Would I Lie?" embraces a sincere approach to the narrative with humorous elements. Nevertheless, upon its release, it didn't receive high appreciation. The movie was even awarded that year's Golden Raspberry Award for worst movie script. Despite the combined crucial reception, the film sticks out due to the fact that of its unique take on morality, fact, and love showed through its engaging storyline and commendable performances.

Top Cast

  • Treat Williams (small)
    Treat Williams
    Cletus
  • Lisa Eichhorn (small)
    Lisa Eichhorn
    Kay
  • Gabriel Macht (small)
    Gabriel Macht
    Jeorge
  • Susan Heldfond
    Amy
  • Anne Byrne Hoffman (small)
    Anne Byrne Hoffman
    Faith
  • Valerie Curtin (small)
    Valerie Curtin
    Mrs. Bok
  • Jocelyn Brando (small)
    Jocelyn Brando
    Mrs. Crumpe
  • Nicolas Coster (small)
    Nicolas Coster
    Walter
  • Severn Darden (small)
    Severn Darden
    Dr. Barbour
  • Sonny Carl Davis (small)
    Sonny Carl Davis
    Paul
  • Jane Burkett
    Natalie