Henry Cavill has finally confirmed his involvement in the highly-anticipated Highlander reboot, signaling his excitement for the upcoming action fantasy epic. In a recent interview with Collider, Cavill disclosed that he will soon embark on an intensive training regimen necessary to wield the iconic sword of the Highlander. While remaining tight-lipped about other details surrounding the project, he expressed his desire to keep everything 'under wraps' for the time being.
Cavill, well-known for his role as Geralt of Rivia in Netflix's hit series The Witcher, already possesses sword-fighting experience. However, he admits that preparing for Highlander will require an even more extensive period of training. Given this, we can only anticipate a truly awe-inspiring display of sword-clashing in the film. After enduring numerous years of production setbacks, the Highlander reboot has finally been given the green light, with renowned director Chad Stahelski, best known for his work on the John Wick franchise, at the helm.
The Highlander remake is expected to follow a similar storyline to the original 1986 film. The narrative revolves around Connor MacLeod, a skilled swordsman portrayed by Christopher Lambert, who discovers that he is one of several immortal warriors vulnerable only to beheading. Following centuries of relative peace, MacLeod settles in New York City and is reluctantly drawn back into battles when his arch-nemesis resurfaces, aiming to kill him and seize 'the Prize'—a coveted special ability bestowed upon the last surviving immortal warrior.
Stahelski has praised Henry Cavill and his approach to portraying the titular immortal warrior. The director was particularly impressed by Cavill's thoughtful considerations regarding the burden of eternal life. Describing the character arc as spanning centuries and encompassing the growth of various personas, Stahelski noted Cavill's ability to transform himself from a youthful and vibrant soul to an aged and wise one—an aspect that enthralled the filmmaker.
The original Highlander film spawned a franchise comprising sequels, TV spinoffs, and comic adaptations. Stahelski has expressed his eagerness to do the same with the reboot, envisioning a captivating and expansive television series set within the rich Highlander mythology. He believes that the concept of immortal warriors battling one another throughout different periods, nationalities, cultures, and personalities offers a wealth of creative possibilities—an idea that truly excites him.
Although the Highlander reboot is currently slated for a 2026 release, fans can catch Henry Cavill in his upcoming spy film Argylle, directed by Matthew Vaughn, set to hit theaters on February 2, 2024. As we eagerly await the news surrounding Highlander, let us revel in the anticipation of witnessing Cavill's transformation into the immortal warrior and the spectacular world that Stahelski envisions for this beloved franchise.
