Highlander (2025)

Introduction

After nearly two decades in development, the cult classic Highlander is being reborn—with a bold new vision. Titled simply Highlander, the reboot is set to begin filming in early 2025 in Scotland and promises to bring fresh energy to the iconic tale of immortal warriors who battle through the ages.

Creative Team & Setting

Directed by Chad Stahelski (John Wick), the film will star Henry Cavill as the lead immortal, Connor MacLeod. Stahelski describes the sequel as "John Wick with swords," promising visceral, cinematic swordplay alongside deep mythology.

Production kicks off in Scotland in January or September 2025 (reports vary), with additional shoots planned in Italy, Hong Kong, New York, and beyond. Aiming for expansive global storytelling, the film intends to weave flashbacks through centuries and modern-day arenas.

Cast & Characters

• Henry Cavill portrays Connor MacLeod, a 500-year-old warrior forced into mortal combat against other immortals.

• Russell Crowe joins the cast as Ramirez, MacLeod’s mentor—echoing Sean Connery’s iconic original role.

• A new actor will take on the role of the Kurgan, the ruthless adversary who remains key to the story’s fatal stakes.

Tone & Themes

• Mythic Scale: Stahelski plans to balance gritty, high-octane action with the existential weight of immortality—exploring centuries of loss, love, and legacy.

• Global Scope: Be it 1500s Scotland or the neon-lit streets of Hong Kong, the reboot aims for epic diversity in setting.

• Foundations for Expansion: The film is being positioned as the first in a potential trilogy or broader Highlander universe, setting up both prequels and sequels.

Production & Release Timeline

Pre-production is well underway. Filming is slated to begin in early or late 2025, with completion projected through multiple locations. The current target for release is 2027 or 2028, under a new distribution partnership with Amazon's MGM/United Artists.

Fan Reception

Enthusiastic reactions online reflect cautious optimism. Reddit users praise Stahelski as a committed fan and express hope that Cavill’s devotion and sword training will elevate the franchise. Others express concerns that the reboot could drift into derivative action territory, hoping that emotional weight and mythic gravitas remain central.

Why It Matters

• Reviving a Cult Classic: Hollywood hasn’t seen a true Highlander reboot since the 2000s, and this one brings better resources and creative passion.

• Star Power Meets Legacy: Cavill’s action credibility and Crowe’s gravitas echo original magic, bridging generations.

• Expansive Potential: The intention to launch a cinematic universe—possibly across eras and genres—speaks to the property’s untapped scope.

Conclusion

Highlander (2025) seeks to reinvent a beloved fantasy icon: rooted in timeless lore, powered by killer sword combat, and driven by the weight of eternal life. With Chad Stahelski behind the camera and Henry Cavill leading the charge, the project feels destined to bring both spectacle and soul to the "there can be only one" mantra.