My Old School

In the 1998 mockumentary film 'My Old School,' writer-director Dave McKenzie chronicles the extraordinary story of James Kelly, a 21-year-old Scottish man who, in 1993, posed as a 16-year-old schoolboy at Bearsden Academy, a prestigious secondary school in a wealthy suburb of Glasgow, Scotland. The film's narrative is presented in a documentary style, with interviews from former classmates, friends, and teachers of James Kelly, interspersed with dramatic reenactments of pivotal events. The mockumentary structure adds a layer of complexity and raises questions about the nature of truth and memory. According to the film, James Kelly, an adult man at the time, fabricated an elaborate backstory for himself, creating a life history and fake family that convinced his new classmates of his authenticity. He enrolled at Bearsden Academy, a school favored by the region's affluent residents, and became a charismatic figure within the student body. Kelly was portrayed in the film as someone who effortlessly navigated friendships and social dynamics at the school. He gained the trust of his peers, who considered him to be one of their own. Despite facing occasional suspicions from teachers about his age and background, Kelly managed to convincingly present himself as a young student who belonged at the school. As Kelly's time at Bearsden Academy drew to a close, he developed romantic relationships with his female classmates. A reenactment of one of these relationships showed the deep emotional connection Kelly shared with his partner, which blurred the lines between reality and his fabricated persona. Throughout the film, the lines between truth and fiction become increasingly blurred. The narrative structure creates a sense of uncertainty, as the documentary-style interviews from former classmates and acquaintances are intercut with dramatic reenactments that are often indistinguishable from reality. One of the underlying themes explored in 'My Old School' is the power of deception and the human desire to create and maintain a persona, particularly during adolescence. Kelly's actions can be seen as a desperate attempt to hold onto youth and escape the confines of adulthood. However, the consequences of Kelly's actions are also a central concern of the film. As his deception continued, Kelly's actions began to put those around him at risk, raising questions about the extent to which his actions were morally justifiable. Ultimately, Kelly's ruse crumbled under the weight of suspicion and investigation by his teachers. In 1995, he was arrested and charged with making false statements. The aftermath of his arrest and the trial's subsequent verdict are portrayed in a straightforward and matter-of-fact manner, devoid of sensationalism or dramatization. In 'My Old School,' director Dave McKenzie masterfully explores the themes of identity, deception, and the complexities of human relationships. The mockumentary structure of the film creates a sense of tension and uncertainty, drawing the viewer into Kelly's world and forcing them to question the lines between truth and fiction. As the film concludes, the complexity and nuance of James Kelly's story become apparent. Rather than simply being a figure of amusement or ridicule, Kelly emerges as a multidimensional human being whose actions are driven by a deep-seated desire to escape the constraints of adulthood and recapture the carefree spirit of youth. Through its unique narrative structure and sensitive portrayal of Kelly's experiences, 'My Old School' presents a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, leaving audiences to ponder the implications of Kelly's story and the consequences of his actions. The 1998 mockumentary has been praised for its thought-provoking and poignant portrayal of James Kelly's story, and it received an award for best UK feature at the 1998 Edinburgh International Film Festival.