The first feature film set in Dundee will be shown on the big screen for the first time later this month in a special preview event in the city.
Schemers will have a gala screening at the DCA on Perth Road on September 21, ahead of its release in 180 cinemas across the UK.
It tells the real-life story of the rise of music promoter Dave McLean and his friends who defy all odds in bringing heavy metal icons Iron Maiden to the city’s Caird Hall in 1980.
The gig, remembered fondly by many in the city, was a launch pad for McLean’s career, leading him to work with the likes of Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Roxy Music, Pearl Jam and Oasis.
The comedy-drama charts the group’s shambolic early attempts to make it big, falling into debt to the local mob and getting into various scrapes.
Audience members will be treated to a special introduction ahead of the screening and a Q&A session with the filmmakers.
Dave, who directed the film, said: “It’s been a long time coming, but at last the movie can be shown to the people of Dundee.
“It’s very special to be screening in my hometown, I love the humour and fighting spirit and character of everyone.
“No matter what gets thrown at Dundee folk, they have a laugh, and they can find a funny side to most things.”
Filmed with a local crew in iconic city locations — and featuring cameos from some of the city’s best-known musicians and creatives — Schemers stars Conor Berry as Mclean as well as Sean Connor and Grant Robert Keelan.
Alice Black, DCA’s head of cinema, said: “This is a watershed moment in the history of Dundee cinema – a feature film about our fair city made on location.
“Energetic and fun, Schemers is a film we are incredibly proud to have on our screens. Congratulations to all involved.”
It premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in June, winning an award voted for by cinema-goers attending public screenings.
It was also nominated for the Best UK Feature at the prestigious Raindance Film Festival in London.
The DCA reopened on September 4. To book tickets visit dca.org.uk.
