SUCKER

Beloved comedian Lawrence Leung is behind this warm coming-of-age story of cons, cheats, love and lies.

When Chinese-Australian teenager Lawrence cheats at and fails his high-school exams, destroying his dreams of a medical degree, he's banished to the country for the summer. There, he meets wily old conman the Professor and his cynical daughter Sarah, and learns that even the sneakiest scam can't conjure up love. Is it a true story? That might be another of Leung's tricks.

The film showcases Lily Sullivan (Galore, MIFF 2013; Mental, MIFF 2012), Kat Stewart (Offspring, Underbelly), YouTube sensation John Luc (aka mychonny) as the young Lawrence, and British legend Timothy Spall as the Professor, all in the glorious surrounds of Melbourne and regional Victoria.

This polished feature film debut from MIFF Accelerator alumnus Ben Chessell is based on Leung's critically acclaimed and award-winning solo stage show of the same name.

John Luc, Lily Sullivan, Lawrence Leung and Ben Chessell are guests of the festival.

Find out more about the Talking Pictures panel event related to this screening.