Bullied at school and ignored at home, Jim lies compulsively to add interest to his drab existence. When his dog goes missing, a mysterious new neighbour named Dean takes an interest in Jim’s plight. Allowing himself to be moulded by Dean, Jim hopes his transformation will secure social success.

Craig Roberts made an impressive debut as writer and director with this misfit tale set in his hometown of Maesycwmmer, Wales. Also on leading man duty, Roberts pulls off a thrilling tonal switch from awkward coming-of-age comedy to sinister territory that’s reminiscent of Patricia Highsmith’s work.