Amazon MGM Studios has unveiled the first look at its upcoming ‘Highlander’ reboot, starring Henry Cavill as immortal warrior Connor MacLeod, during a presentation at CinemaCon on Wednesday night.
The footage, screened exclusively for exhibitors and attendees, offers the first glimpse into the studio’s reimagining of the cult fantasy franchise. The project is directed by Chad Stahelski, known for his work on the ‘John Wick’ series, and is positioned as a large-scale, stylised retelling of the long-running saga centred on immortal warriors.
Details shared during the presentation described the preview as “loud, international, stylish, and big,” signalling an ambitious visual approach to the narrative. The story revisits the core premise of the franchise, following immortals across centuries as they move towards the Gathering — a decisive confrontation where “there will be only one,” with rivals eliminating each other in high-stakes battles.
Cavill takes on the role of Connor MacLeod, originally portrayed by Christopher Lambert in the 1986 film. Russell Crowe appears as Ramirez, MacLeod’s mentor, a character made iconic by Sean Connery in the original. The cast also includes Siobhan Cullen, Marisa Abela, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou and Dave Bautista.
© instagram.com/henrycavillThe production had earlier faced delays after Cavill sustained an injury during training in pre-production last year. Filming has since progressed under Stahelski’s direction, with a screenplay by Michael Finch, who also worked on ‘John Wick: Chapter 4.’
The original ‘Highlander’, released in 1986 and directed by Russell Mulcahy, depicted an ancient conflict between immortals through interwoven timelines. Produced by Peter S Davis and William N Panzer, the film later developed a strong following and expanded into sequels, a television series and a global fanbase.
Amazon MGM Studios’ United Artists has now secured full rights to the original film, enabling plans for a broader franchise that could include future series adaptations.
The reboot is produced by Scott Stuber and Nick Nesbitt, along with Neal H Moritz, Stahelski’s 87Eleven Entertainment, Josh Davis of Davis Panzer Productions, and Louise Rosner. The project was previously in development under Lionsgate.
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