Review of Highlander (1986) by Lindsay B — 04 Nov 2009

Setting: 1536.

"There can be only one!!".

Holy shit, why do I enjoy this film so much. Maybe because of the endless folklore surrounding the Highlander mythology, the loopholes in the rules, explained coyly by Sean Connery. Or maybe it's seeing Christopher Lambert's bare ass. No, I think it is just the fact, that there can be only one!! No, for real though, there are like four or five I think, or maybe they aren't Highlanders, they are just immortal guys. Either way, what the fuck? How confusing can we be here. Clearly I am impressed a lot by this film's ability to confuse me.

Actually, there are really cool things about this film, as silly as it is on the surface with all the cheesy effects, and at times, ridiculous writing/acting. To enjoy such a film, it helps greatly to have a healthy and nurtured fantasy/sci-fi appreciation. Otherwise, I think it could easily bounce off the deflector shield of your mind's eye.

The most enjoyable aspect, for myself, honestly, was the soundtrack... Graciously and exclusively supplied by Queen. For an 80s action film, it doesn't get much more bad-ass than that!

The impact of Highlander has been huge though, inspiring countless other Highlanders to emerge. There are five films alone, not to mention countless television episodes, spin-off series, and even animated series, Nintendo games, and even CCG's.

The consensus seems to be= either you're on-board, or you're not.

One more time..

"There can be only one!!".