The versatile James McAvoy, known for his dynamic roles in “X-Men” and “The Last King of Scotland,” is set to make his directorial debut with a captivating biopic. This film will delve into the true story of two ambitious Scottish lads, Gavin Bain and Billy Boyd, who pulled off an extraordinary con in the international music industry.
Hailing from Dundee, Bain and Boyd faced ridicule for their Scottish accents while pursuing their musical dreams. In a bold move, they reinvented themselves as Silibil N’ Brains, a Californian rap duo. They fabricated American accents, claimed to have been childhood friends with Eminem, and swiftly secured a record deal, advanced payments, and even a spot on MTV, before their elaborate deception unraveled.
The currently untitled film promises to be an exhilarating journey into the worlds of music, deception, and the indomitable Scottish spirit. McAvoy shares his excitement, stating, “What these two young men from Dundee attempted beggars belief. I can’t wait to bring this absolutely incredible, and also very Scottish/Californian story to the cinema. Using Scottish talent both behind and in front of the camera is something I’m passionate about. I’m over the moon to be making my directorial debut in my homeland. This film will be a celebration of the Scottish spirit, but the audacious fakery of the ‘Silibil N’ Brains’ duo will undoubtedly captivate audiences worldwide.”
Produced by Homefront Productions, with Scottish producer Guy J Louthan (“The Wilds”) at the helm, shooting is set to commence next year. The majority of the production will be based in Scotland, adding authenticity to the portrayal of Bain and Boyd’s roots. Casting, led by Kahleen Crawford, is scheduled to begin later this year.
The story was previously chronicled in Bain’s 2010 memoir, “California Schemin’” (later reprinted as “Straight Outta Scotland”), and the 2013 SXSW documentary, “The Great Hip Hop Hoax.”
McAvoy, a BAFTA winner, is currently working on Blumhouse’s horror movie “Speak No Evil,” and will soon be seen in Legendary’s “The Book Of Clarence.” With a rich history in theatre and film, McAvoy’s diverse roles range from the dramatic depths of “Macbeth” on stage, to the fantastical realms of “The Chronicles of Narnia.” His portrayal of Kevin Wendell Crumb in M. Night Shyamalan’s “Split” and “Glass” showcased his incredible range and ability to seamlessly transition between multiple characters. This upcoming directorial venture marks a significant milestone in McAvoy’s illustrious career, as he brings a uniquely Scottish story to the global screen, all while championing local talent.
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