Stone of Destiny

Charles Martin Smith

BY Brendan WillisPublished Feb 19, 2009

Stone of Destiny is a cross between a big time heist story and that time Homer Simpson stole the pig from that rival college. On one hand, a group of thieves broke into one of the most important buildings in London and stole a priceless historical artefact. On the other, a group of Scottish students stole back their country's pet rock. How you judge the severity of the crime most likely depends on what side of Hadrian's Wall you grew up on.

For those who don't know UK history, the Stone of Scone (aka the Stone of Destiny) was used as the coronation stone for Scottish Kings. In 1296, King Edward I stole the stone and brought it to Westminster Abbey in London, where it was fitted into the coronation throne so that all subsequent English kings would, by dint of sitting atop the stone, also be crowned King of Scotland.

Stone of Destiny is based on the true story of a group of Scottish students, led by Ian Hamilton (Charlie Cox), who stole the Stone of Scone and returned it to Scotland in 1950. The plan was simple: break into Westminster Abbey, grab the stone, bring it home to Scotland and instil some pride in the Scottish people. Of course, stealing a 300-pound rock from underneath the British throne isn't a walk in the park, and therein lays the adventure that would inspire a Nation.

Stone of Destiny is an entertaining little film that probably won't cause much of a stir beyond the Southern Lowlands, as theatregoers tend to like their rebellious Scots clad in kilts and painted blue with woad. Keep your eye out for this movie when it finally comes to video store shelves because it will make a fine companion to a nice bottle of usquebaugh.
(Alliance)

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