In California Schemin,’ identity is crucial, and Dundee is hiding in plain sight. With a rise-to-fame story, two fake American accents, and a dream, the film is rooted in the myth of Californian success but was built in the streets of Dundee.
In his first directorial debut, Scottish actor James McAvoy took the reins on California Schemin’, which follows the chaotic lives of two Dundonian-born rappers. Partners-in-crime Gavin Bain and Billy Boyd share a passion for rap music but are struggling to find success in the music industry. Rather than embracing their thick Dundonian accents, they adopt fabricated American accents to reinvent themselves as some Cali boys. The dynamic duo pulls out all the stops to secure a record deal in London, and whilst performing under the name Sibil N’ Brains, they rise to fame, before their truth is quickly unravelled.
The film highlights the thrill and strain of what the music industry can bring, and through their infectious energy and character, Gavin and Billy both reveal the cost of pretending to be someone else.
As the narrative is strongly linked to imagined images of the states, Dundee is still at its core throughout. The city of Dundee can be found at many points throughout the film, with scenes of Tannadice and Dens football stadiums, and shots of the Tay Bridge, to name a few. For local audiences and individuals from Dundee, it creates a distinct viewing experience, and spotting familiar locations means you may even hear “I can see meh hoose fae here!’
The chance for Dundee to be present on the big screen is significant, as it shows our city’s growing reputation as a creative and cultural hub in the industry. Dundee being a part of California Schemin’ is incredibly exciting for the city, as it shows exactly how adaptable Dundee can be.
The film highlights an important message that links directly to Dundee and shows that our city revolves around local stories. The narrative shows working-class ambition and the desire to be heard, and makes us realise how proud we should be to be Dundonian!
The film is screening now at Dundee Contemporary Arts, Cineworld, and ODEON, and it surely isn’t to be missed!