In a recent exclusive revelation, it has been announced that James McAvoy’s much-anticipated directorial debut is making significant strides. The film, tentatively titled “California Schemin'”, has finalized its lead cast and is poised to make its mark at the Cannes market, in partnership with Bankside and UTA Independent Film Group.
The BAFTA-winning McAvoy is set to take on a supporting role in the film, which will be led by BAFTA-nominated Samuel Bottomley, known for his breakout role in “How To Have Sex”, and newcomer Séamus McLean Ross, currently filming for “Outlander: Blood of My Blood”.
“California Schemin'” will delve into the true story of Gavin Bain (to be portrayed by McLean Ross) and Billy Boyd (Bottomley), two Scottish individuals from Dundee who ingeniously swindled the international music scene by adopting American personas as the established Californian rap duo, Silibil N’ Brains. The late 90s narrative portrays their journey of reinvention, where they re-recorded their tracks with fake accents, claimed affiliation with Eminem, and ultimately secured a record deal and an MTV appearance, before their facade crumbled.
Adapted from Bain’s autobiography, later retitled “Straight Outta Scotland”, the film is currently in pre-production. Archie Thomson has penned the screenplay, while Kahleen Crawford serves as the casting director. Production is spearheaded by Scottish producer Guy J. Louthan of Ransom Films and Danny Page of Homefront Productions, with Stephen Kelliher and Sophie Green as executive producers for Bankside Films.
McAvoy expressed his pride in helming the project, emphasizing its roots in both the Californian rap scene and Scottish working-class milieu. He lauded the script’s portrayal of Silibil ‘n’ Brains’ audacious journey and expressed excitement about collaborating with talented young actors Bottomley and McLean Ross.
Kelliher of Bankside Films echoed the sentiment, anticipating the film’s ability to captivate audiences with its blend of entertainment, humor, and poignancy, as it unveils one of music history’s most remarkable scams.
McAvoy, represented by UTA, United Agents, and Sloane Offer, is poised to captivate audiences once again with his upcoming appearance in the Blumhouse horror film “Speak No Evil”.
