David Mamet's film "House of Games" delves into the intricate world of cons and con artists, effectively demonstrating the concept of forced teaming, where two or more people are manipulated into believing they share a common goal. The film captivates audiences by showcasing the psychological manipulation involved in cons, emphasizing the relational dynamics between the characters as they navigate deception and trust. It provides a gripping narrative that highlights how easily people can fall into manipulation when they are led to believe they have a shared purpose.
In Gavin de Becker's "The Gift of Fear," the author presents survival signals that can help individuals protect themselves from violence. While the book focuses on personal safety and intuition, it complements the themes in Mamet's film by underscoring the importance of recognizing and understanding manipulative behaviors. Both works encourage awareness of psychological tactics, allowing individuals to better navigate their interactions with others and safeguard themselves against potential threats.