Shooting started this week on Cheeky, a black comedy which marks the feature directorial debut of UK actor David Thewlis.

Thewlis, best known for his role in Mike Leigh's Naked, has also scripted and will star in the film, produced by Trudie Styler's Xingu Films outfit. Luc Besson's Europa Corp is co-producing.

The film tells the story on a toy shop owner, played by Thewlis, whose life is turned upside down after the sudden death of his wife. He then meets another woman when he signs up as a quiz show contestant, believing it to be his wife's last wish.

Trudie Styler, who appears in the film, is also producing along with Xingu's Travis Swords. Other cast members include comedian Johnny Vegas, Ian Hart, Lesley Sharp, Ruth Sheen and newcomer Sean Ward.