The legendary cry “There can be only one” echoes once more as the long-awaited Highlander reboot charges into production, delivering a fresh vision of the immortal warrior saga that has captivated fans since 1986. Directed by Chad Stahelski—the visionary behind the John Wick franchise—this ambitious fantasy-action reboot stars Henry Cavill as the stoic Scottish immortal Connor MacLeod and Dave Bautista as the terrifying antagonist The Kurgan. With principal photography underway since late January 2026, behind-the-scenes glimpses from sets in Scotland and London have ignited excitement, showcasing intense sword fights, elaborate costumes, and the kind of high-octane stunt work that promises to elevate the classic tale for a new generation.
Cavill steps into the iconic role of Connor MacLeod, the 16th-century Highlander blacksmith who discovers his immortality after a fatal battlefield wound. Exiled from his clan and thrust into an eternal war among immortals who must fight until only one remains to claim “The Prize”—encompassing all knowledge and power—Connor’s journey spans centuries. In this reboot, the story grounds itself in the core mythos while expanding the scope: from the misty Scottish Highlands of the 1500s to modern-day settings including New York and Hong Kong. Cavill, known for his physical dedication in roles like Superman and Geralt of Rivia, has embraced the challenge with rigorous training in swordsmanship and martial arts. Set photos capture him in rugged period attire—leather armor, flowing cloak, and claymore in hand—looking every bit the battle-hardened warrior. One striking image shows him bloodied and determined after a grueling sequence, while another reveals him mid-leap during wire work, highlighting the film’s commitment to practical action.
Bautista, fresh off his imposing turns in Guardians of the Galaxy and Dune, embodies The Kurgan, the savage, ancient immortal who serves as Connor’s ultimate nemesis. Inspired by Christopher Lambert’s menacing portrayal in the original, Bautista’s version amps up the brutality with a hulking physique and feral intensity. Recent set leaks depict him in a blood-soaked priest’s robe—suggesting a twisted modern disguise—wielding a massive broadsword during nighttime shoots at iconic London locations like Westminster Abbey. Photos show the two stars clashing in choreographed combat: Cavill dodging sweeping strikes, Bautista roaring with primal fury, and both crashing through props in explosive takedowns. Their on-set chemistry appears electric—moments of laughter between takes contrast the characters’ deadly rivalry, hinting at mutual respect amid the chaos.
Stahelski’s involvement is a major draw. Renowned for revolutionizing action cinema with fluid, long-take fights in John Wick, he brings that same precision to Highlander‘s signature duels. The director has emphasized practical stunts over heavy CGI, training the cast extensively in historical European martial arts (HEMA) to make every clash feel visceral and authentic. Behind-the-scenes footage leaked online captures wire rigs, crash pads, and safety crews coordinating massive swings, with Cavill and Bautista performing much of their own work. Stahelski has teased that the film will “bend storytelling” in innovative ways, blending myth with emotional depth—exploring immortality’s toll on identity, love, and sacrifice—while delivering spectacle on a grand scale.
The supporting cast adds formidable depth. Russell Crowe plays Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez, Connor’s wise Egyptian mentor who teaches him the rules of the Game and the art of the sword—echoing Sean Connery’s charismatic turn in the original. Marisa Abela joins as a key romantic or allied figure, while Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, Jeremy Irons (as a leader of The Watchers, a secretive group monitoring immortals), Max Zhang, and wrestler Drew McIntyre round out an ensemble blending star power with genre credibility. The inclusion of The Watchers suggests the reboot draws from both the 1986 film and the expanded lore of the TV series, adding layers of conspiracy and observation to the immortal conflict.
Production faced hurdles—Cavill suffered a calf injury during pre-production rehearsals, delaying the start by months—but the team pushed through, resuming in Scotland for Highland sequences before shifting to urban London shoots. Cinematographer Dan Laustsen (The Shape of Water, John Wick: Chapter 4) captures the film’s sweeping visuals: fog-shrouded moors contrasting neon-lit modern cities, ancient blades flashing against contemporary backdrops. Budgeted over $100 million, the project aims for theatrical grandeur, with Amazon MGM Studios handling distribution and a likely 2027 release.
Fan anticipation runs high. The original Highlander, directed by Russell Mulcahy and starring Lambert and Connery, became a cult favorite for its blend of fantasy, rock soundtrack (Queen’s anthems still iconic), and philosophical undertones. Subsequent sequels and a TV series diluted the brand, but this reboot seeks to recapture the magic by staying true to the “There can be only one” ethos while innovating. Stahelski’s action pedigree, paired with Cavill’s star appeal and Bautista’s physical menace, positions it as a potential franchise launcher.
As cameras roll on epic showdowns spanning eras, the Highlander reboot revives a timeless legend with modern muscle. Behind-the-scenes images—of sweat-soaked training, clashing steel, and stars embracing the grind—promise a film that honors its roots while forging a bold new path. In a world of superheroes and sequels, this immortal tale reminds us: in the end, there can be only one—and this version might just claim the Prize.
