Near-perfect “memorable” drama based on wild true story is now available to watch in the UK

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James McAcoy’s first film as a director, the hip-hop biopic California Schemin’, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and is now showing in cinemas across the UK and Ireland.

The film, written by Elaine Gracie and Archie Thomson, tells the true story of Scottish rap duo Silibil N’ Brains – Billy Boyd (played by Samuel Bottomley) and Gavin Bain (played by Séamus McLean Ross).

In one of the most audacious stories in music, two Scotsmen pretended to be California rappers and successfully landed a record deal. This incredible deception is detailed in Bain’s 2010 memoir, California Schemin’: How Two Lads from Scotland Conned the Music Industry.

Okay, so this movie stars McAvoy, and James Corden pops up too. It’s about this small lie that totally spiraled out of control, and they end up touring with a bunch of famous musicians. Throughout the whole thing, they’re really figuring out what they want to do with their lives and if their friendship can even survive the craziness.

I first saw this movie at the Toronto International Film Festival back in September, and then it had its UK premiere at the Glasgow Film Festival last month. Everyone there seemed to really love it, just like the critics at TIFF!

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The film California Schemin’ has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, earning a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 36 reviews. Screen International praised it as both “engaging” and a “memorable hip-hop movie.”

In a review, The Hollywood Reporter complimented James McAvoy’s skillful directing, noting that despite using familiar story elements, the film is a charming and engaging underdog story.

In a review, The Times noted that while the film ties things up a bit too conveniently with simple emotions and obvious takeaways, it’s still a powerful story about what it means to be Scottish and the mental struggles of someone living a false life.

According to Variety, James McAvoy skillfully highlights the film’s unique qualities while keeping the overall story moving at a pace that will appeal to a wide audience, making it worth watching.

Now that the true story is playing in theaters, you can get ready by watching a clip from the movie, available only on Digital Spy. It’s a great way to experience the rap lyrics and hip-hop music featured in the film.

California Schemin’ is in cinemas now.

The latest issue of Living Legends is available now! This special 100-page, full-color magazine celebrates the incredible Sir David Attenborough. You can find it at newsstands or order it online.

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2026-04-11 18:49