STONE OF DESTINY

Director: Charles Martin Smith, 2008

It's 1951 in Glasgow, Scotland. College senior Ian Hamilton feels the need for a change. He and his close friend, Bill, believe that their country needs to be independent from British rule. Since they can't invade England by themselves, they need to do something drastic enough to call attention to their cause.

They decide to steal the Stone of Destiny---an ancient ceremonial block of sandstone. The Stone was carried away by the British conquerors in the 13th century and kept in Westminster Abbey ever since. If the boys can get the Stone, it would be a symbol for the Scottish quest for self-rule.

Bill blacks out because he's afraid of the consequences. So Ian is forced to look for another companions to accompany him to London to do the deed. Plus, they need financial assistance. After all, they're students and don't have enough money for their travel expenses. Finally, Ian has his team of four and all systems are go.

When they arrive in London, their adventures start to go wrong. They can't seem to get near the stone without some obstacle getting in the way . One of them gets sick while another wants to return home. Previous attempts by others to steal the stone failed. Will they fail as well?

Charlie Cox plays the lead role with passionate enthusiasm. We know that what they're doing is illegal, but we hope he succeeds anyway. The story could have been played with a more serious ton as it was based on a true story. But with humor and great scenery, the film is a charming treat.