Review of Highlander (1986) by Danny R — 28 Nov 2015

Russell Mulcahy's surprisingly engaging action fantasy which was largely panned by most critics, but has since become a cult-classic. It concerns a Scottish swordsman named Connor MacLeon, well-played by Christopher Lambert, who in 1536 is pierced through the heart during mortal combat in the Scottish Highlands and becomes an immortal.

In the year 1986 Connor lives in New York City as a sophisticated high-end antique dealer. It is here in this city and time that he will confront his ancient immortal nemeses, the Kurgan, chilling played by Clancy Brown with joyful malice.

It is the time when the remaining immortals duel to the death until only one survives to claim "The Prize." Sir Sean Connery delivers a wonderfully flamboyant supporting performance as an immortal named Juan Sanchez Villa-Lobos Ramirez, who becomes Connor's mentor and teaches him the art of swordplay as well as the rules to the game.

Good direction by Mulcahy, who gives his film superb action sequences and flashy cinematography by Gerry Fisher. Entertaining and well worth a look. Followed by three sequels and a television series. Recommended.