Exploring the Evolution: Unraveling the Unique Vision of the ‘Highlander’ Remake

Chad Stahelski’s Vision for the Highlander Remake

A Potential Franchise in the Making

Director Chad Stahelski has given fans of the 1986 fantasy classic Highlander some insights into his approach for the highly-anticipated remake. In an interview with the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Stahelski revealed that his plan is not just to create one standalone film, but to potentially launch a series of movies. With Henry Cavill attached to play the immortal Scottish swordsman Connor MacLeod, Stahelski aims to expand the Highlander universe and explore its rich mythology.

Stahelski acknowledges the iconic tagline of the original film, “There can only be one,” but stresses the importance of not rushing the story and killing off all the characters in the first movie. Instead, he wants to build up the narrative, incorporating elements of the previous Highlander TV series that ran for six seasons. This combination of the original film’s characters and the TV show’s storylines will provide a foundation for a prequel, leading up to a climactic event known as The Gathering.

A Prequel and Room for Growth

By creating a prequel to The Gathering, Stahelski aims to give the audience room to grow with the Highlander property. This approach allows for the introduction of new characters, different time periods, nationalities, cultures, and personalities. The concept of immortality and the burden it carries will be explored in depth, offering a fresh and immersive experience for fans.

Stahelski compared Highlander to John Wick, his successful action franchise, emphasizing the potential for Highlander to become an epic TV show. The director believes that the mythology of immortality offers limitless possibilities for storytelling. Each immortal character can bring a unique perspective, and the duels they engage in will further illuminate the complexities of their immortal existence.

The Magic of the Original

Stahelski acknowledges that the original Highlander film is a blend of disparate and sometimes cheesy elements, yet it managed to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression. He describes it as “one of the best-worst films ever,” appreciating the way it defied expectations.

Stahelski’s admiration for the original film is evident in his casting choice for the lead role. Henry Cavill’s physicality and ability to convey empathy were crucial factors in Stahelski’s decision. He believes Cavill has the range and depth required to portray a character who has lived for over 500 years and has transformed into multiple personalities. Stahelski was impressed by Cavill’s passion for the property and his genuine excitement about what he could bring to the role.

An Evolutionary Approach

The Highlander remake, under Stahelski’s direction, promises to be an evolutionary take on the beloved fantasy classic. By expanding the story and embracing the vast potential of the Highlander universe, Stahelski aims to create a franchise capable of captivating audiences for years to come. He recognizes that Highlander is more than just a single film adaptation; it’s an opportunity to explore the depths of immortality and the human experience in a variety of settings and time periods.

As the project continues to develop, fans eagerly anticipate the release of the new Highlander film and the potential for future installments. Stahelski’s unique vision for the franchise, combined with Henry Cavill’s passion and talent, sets the stage for an exciting and immersive cinematic experience.