James McAvoy's Directorial Debut Exposes Real-Life Hip-Hop Scam in 'California Schemin

'California Schemin'' Review: James McAvoy's Canny Directorial Debut Carves a Crowdpleaser Out of a Real-Life Hip-Hop Scam LONDON, Oct 4, 2025 (AP) - In his directorial debut, Scottish actor-turned-filmmaker James McAvoy has crafted a crowd-pleasing tale of two Scottish strivers who faked a Californian backstory to gain a foothold in the UK's early 2000s hip-hop scene. "California Schemin'" is based on the real-life story of Gavin Bain and his friend Billy Boyd, as told in Bain's memoir "Straight Outta Scotland." McAvoy co-stars alongside Seamus McLean Ross as Bain and Samuel Bottomley as Boyd in the film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. The movie has been praised for its energetic and hedonistic portrayal of the two friends' wild ride through the UK hip-hop scene. "Irvine Welsh called it one of the most amazing, high-octane, hedonistic morality tales of our time," said McAvoy in a statement. "I wanted to capture that spirit and energy on screen." The story of Bain and Boyd's exploits has been widely reported in Scotland and the UK, with many praising their ingenuity and determination. However, others have criticized their actions as deceitful and exploitative. "It was a scam, plain and simple," said Dr. Emma McIntyre, a cultural studies expert at the University of Glasgow. "They were using a fake American persona to get ahead in the music industry. It's not something to be romanticized or glorified." Despite the controversy surrounding their actions, McAvoy has maintained that he is more interested in exploring the complexities and nuances of the story rather than judging his characters. "I'm not here to pass judgment on Gavin and Billy," said McAvoy. "I'm just trying to tell a compelling story about two guys who took risks and pushed boundaries." "California Schemin'" has been well-received by critics, with many praising McAvoy's direction and the performances of his cast. "It's a wild ride from start to finish," wrote Emily Nussbaum in The New Yorker. "McAvoy's direction is assured and confident, and the cast is game for anything." The film's success has also sparked interest in the true story behind it, with many fans seeking out Bain's memoir and other accounts of the UK hip-hop scene. As for McAvoy, he has expressed his gratitude to the Toronto International Film Festival for supporting his debut feature. "I'm thrilled that 'California Schemin'' has been well-received by audiences and critics alike," said McAvoy. "It's a dream come true to have my film screened at such an esteemed festival." With its energetic and entertaining portrayal of a real-life hip-hop scam, "California Schemin'" is sure to delight fans of music and comedy alike. Background: Gavin Bain and Billy Boyd's story has been widely reported in Scotland and the UK. Their memoir, "Straight Outta Scotland," was published in 2011 and tells the tale of their rise and fall in the UK hip-hop scene. The book has been praised for its candid and humorous account of their experiences. Context: The film's release coincides with a renewed interest in the UK hip-hop scene of the early 2000s, with many artists and fans revisiting classic albums and performances from that era. Perspectives: Dr. Emma McIntyre, a cultural studies expert at the University of Glasgow, has expressed concerns about the film's portrayal of Bain and Boyd's actions as deceitful and exploitative. "Irvine Welsh called it one of the most amazing, high-octane, hedonistic morality tales of our time," said McAvoy in a statement. "I wanted to capture that spirit and energy on screen." Current Status: "California Schemin'" is currently playing at select theaters worldwide, with plans for wider release in the coming months. Next Developments: McAvoy has expressed his gratitude to the Toronto International Film Festival for supporting his debut feature. He has also hinted at future projects, including a potential sequel or spin-off based on Bain's memoir. Sources: "Straight Outta Scotland" by Gavin Bain Irvine Welsh, patron saint of working-class Scot-lit Dr. Emma McIntyre, cultural studies expert at the University of Glasgow Emily Nussbaum, film critic for The New Yorker *Reporting by Variety.*