James McAvoy’s excellent biopic about “unbelievable” true story gets new trailer ahead of UK release

James McAvoy is making his directorial debut with the film California Schemin’, coming to UK and Irish cinemas in April. The trailer, released today, is sure to make you want to see it immediately!

This fantastic movie tells the incredible true story of a hip-hop con. It sounds too crazy to be real, but it’s about two young Scottish rappers who pretended to be American artists and actually became famous.

Gavin Bain and Billy Boyd, known as Silibil N’ Brains, are portrayed by Séamus McLean Ross and Samuel Bottomley in the film. James McAvoy plays the head of the record label who is ultimately tricked by them. As their popularity increases, however, their fabricated story begins to unravel, straining their friendship.

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The movie features fantastic performances from its two main actors. Although it deviates from the real events, it’s a truly remarkable film that you have to experience for yourself.

The new film, California Schemin’, will be shown in UK and Irish cinemas starting Friday, April 10th. Before the general release, it will premiere in Glasgow as the closing night gala of the Glasgow Film Festival, with stars James McAvoy and the cast attending.

Starring Lucy Halliday and Rebekah Murrell (known from Blue Jean and Netflix’s One Day), California Schemin’ is also written by Elaine Gracie and Archie Thomson.

The film first premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last September and has since received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, James McAvoy’s first time directing results in a charming and surprisingly engaging underdog story, even though it uses familiar plot elements.

Collider praised “California Schemin'” as a confident, engaging, and very personal story. They noted that McAvoy powerfully explores themes of ambition, prejudice, and the pressure to perform, while also celebrating the resilience of Scotland.

I’m so excited! “California Schemin'” is finally coming to UK and Irish cinemas on April 10th! And even better, it’s going to have its UK premiere at the Glasgow Film Festival on March 8th – I can’t wait to see it!

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2026-02-12 19:19