One of the most talked–about documentaries when it world–premiered at Sundance, MY OLD SCHOOL unravels the astonishing true story of a mysterious new student who may not be who his Scottish classmates and teachers believe.

In 1993, 16–year–old Brandon Lee enrolled at Bearsden Academy, a secondary school in a well–to–do suburb of Glasgow, Scotland. What followed over the next two years would become the stuff of legend. Brandon had been privately tutored in Canada while he
accompanied his mother, an opera diva, on tour before her tragic death. The preternaturally bright student surprised teachers by blazing toward his goal of entering medical school, displaying a wealth of knowledge beyond his years. Brandon found friends despite his initial awkwardness, taking bullied students under his wing, introducing classmates to seminal retro bands, and even starring in the school’s production of South Pacific. But then his unbelievable secret was revealed.

Filmmaker Jono McLeod returns to his old school for a nostalgic look at the strange but true story of his former classmate, Brandon Lee. Utilizing playful, period–specific animation, a pitch–perfect soundtrack, the memories of students and teachers, and the talents of Alan Cumming to bring the tale to life, MY OLD SCHOOL offers more than one surprise along the way.

“My Old School will increasingly leave you slack-jawed.” (Austin Chronicle)

“An engaging film that will be best enjoyed if one restrains from searching the plot twist online before watching.” (LA Times)

“The film uses this sensational tale to compassionately explore why people deceive and how perspective can fuel empathy.” (Globe and Mail)

“Like ‘Tickled’ and ‘Cropsey,’ ‘My Old School’ is one of those documentaries that has a story so far-fetched that it must be seen to be believed.” (The Upcoming)

Sunday, August 21
Doors 4:30 pm | Movie 4:55 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Advance tickets HERE

*Minors permitted. Must be 19+ w/ID for bar service. Rio Theatre Groupons and passes OK for any single film screening only. Please redeem at the box office.
*If you are looking to redeem your tickets to either a canceled Rio Theatre screening or a Rio Theatre gift certificate, please email <[email protected]> with info including your name, canceled receipt number, gift certificate info, what you are wanting to see and when, and we can make the switch for you in advance. Alternately, you can bring this information with you to the venue, and we will do our best to help you at the box office.

MY OLD SCHOOL (Jono McLeod, 2022 / 104 mins / PG) In 1993, a boy named Brandon Lee enrolls at the Bearsden Academy secondary school in Glasgow, Scotland. Over time, it is revealed that Brandon Lee is not who he seems.