Every person in the world is separated by no more than six people: six degrees of separation.

John Guare presents this theory in Six Degrees of Separation, Fred Schepisi's film of Guare's own play. This film is based loosely on a true story about the intrusion of a con-artist into the lives of a wealthy New York family.

In a performance which earned her an Academy Award nomination, Stockard Channing plays Ouisa Kittredge, the wife of a wealthy art dealer, played by Donald Sutherland. A homosexual con-artist (Will Smith), claiming to be Sidney Poitier's son and a friend of their children, intrudes upon this seemingly content couple.

Schepisi uses flashbacks to tell most of the story. Each event in the movie is offered by one of the Kittredges talking to a group of friends. Despite the complexity of these flashback sequences, the narrative flows smoothly, effectively splitting apart the major scenes in the film.

Although this comedic drama has many subplots, the overriding theme seems to be the discovery of self. It seems Paul Poitier (Will Smith) is trying to find himself by leading the life of someone else, while Ouisa Kittredge learns more about herself through her relationship with Paul. She is flattered that someone would go to so much trouble to lead her life. Because of his efforts, she begins to question her values.

The film contains some interesting satirical elements. The wealthy are mocked throughout the film. In one scene Ouisa Kittredge says "It's a treat eating at home. All we do is eat out anymore." The most interesting critique concerns parent-child relationships. The children in the movie are constantly in conflict with their parents. The lack of clear communication between parent and child is most obvious when the Kittredge's daughter tries to tell her parents she's going to get married. Her parents are so concerned about Paul, they don't even listen to her.

Sutherland delivers a solid performance in a film dominated by Channing and Smith. Smith breaks away from his Fresh Prince mold with his portrayal of a troubled man who wants to live the good life. Smith trades his buffoonish television personality for a more multi-faceted and troubled character. Stockard Channing is extremely convincing as she subtly displays her maternal affection for Paul.

This film has only one real fault. Six Degrees began as a play, which becomes readily apparent in some scenes because of the somewhat distracting and lengthy passages of dramatic dialogue. Other than that, the script's move from stage to film is flawless.