Set in eighteenth century Edinburgh, Scotland, and based on the life of one of the most notorious people in Scotland's history. Deacon Brodie (Sir Billy Connolly) holds the keys to the city, and, coincidentally, is the most successful burglar. When his gallows design is rejected by the council, he faces financial ruin and so sets about a huge robbery. However, this goes wrong and he faces death by his own invention.—Thomas McEwan