California Schemin (15)

Actor James McAvoy’s directorial debut is an irresistible comedy drama inspired by the stranger-than-fiction real life tale of faux-Californian rap duo Silibil N’ Brains.

Lifelong friends Gavin (Séamus McLean Ross) and Billy (Samuel Bottomley) dream of hip-hop stardom, but nobody in the 2000s UK rap scene takes them – two white guys with thick Dundee accents – seriously. Fed up of being laughed out of auditions, they hatch a new plan: posing as hard-partying Californian MCs. After they con a top industry producer (McAvoy), their star is on the rise, but as the lies pile up, their friendship is put to the test.

With engaging performances, smart insights into the music industry and terrific original music by Silibil N’ Brains, California Schemin’ is a funny and poignant take on image, friendship and the double-edged sword of ambition.