First Look at Henry Cavill in the Upcoming Highlander Movie: The Immortal Warrior Returns, Sword in Hand and Destiny in His Eyes
On January 28, 2026, the internet ignited with a single Instagram post from Henry Cavill that fans had waited years to see. “Happy First Look for Highlander!” the actor captioned two striking images, marking the official start of production on Chad Stahelski’s highly anticipated reboot of the 1986 cult classic. In one photo, Cavill stands in what appears to be a rain-soaked Hong Kong street at night, his long leather trench coat billowing slightly, a massive sword strapped across his back, his expression a mix of weary resolve and quiet intensity. In the other, he poses in a New York-like urban setting, the same coat and blade in place, evoking a Blade Runner-meets-medieval fantasy vibe that screams modern epic. The look is battle-worn, rugged, and undeniably commanding—Henry Cavill as Connor MacLeod, the immortal Scottish Highlander who has lived through centuries, fought countless duels, and now faces the ultimate Prize: the last one standing claims the power of all immortals.
This first look isn’t just a couple of set photos; it’s a declaration. After years of development hell, delays, injuries, and studio shifts, Highlander is finally rolling cameras in Scotland, and Cavill—fresh off roles that showcased his physicality and gravitas—is stepping into the role that could redefine his post-Superman, post-Witcher era. Directed by Chad Stahelski, the mastermind behind the John Wick franchise’s balletic gun-fu and relentless action choreography, this reboot promises to blend the original’s philosophical undertones of immortality and loneliness with high-octane, modern swordplay that feels both visceral and operatic. The tagline echoes in every frame: “There can be only one.”
The journey to this moment has been as epic as the story itself. Announced in 2021 with Cavill attached as Connor MacLeod, the project bounced between studios before landing at Amazon MGM Studios under the United Artists banner. Early scripts by Ryan Condal (who later departed) and later revisions by Mike Finch and Kerry Williamson aimed to honor the 1986 film’s spirit—immortals drawn into a secret war across time, dueling until only one remains—while updating it for contemporary audiences. Production was originally slated for late 2025, but Cavill suffered a severe leg injury during intense sword-training rehearsals, pushing everything to 2026. The delay, while frustrating, allowed for deeper preparation and, apparently, a more refined vision. Now, with filming underway in the rugged Scottish Highlands that inspired the original tale, the first images feel like a long-awaited exhale.
Cavill’s portrayal of Connor MacLeod captures the essence of what made the character legendary. Born in the 16th century Scottish village of Glenfinnan, MacLeod discovers his immortality after a fatal wound in battle heals before his eyes. Banished by his clan as a demon, he wanders the world, learning the rules of the Game: immortals must fight until the Gathering, when the last one claims the Quickening—the absorbed power and knowledge of every fallen foe. Christopher Lambert’s original performance in 1986 was brooding, melancholic, and magnetic, blending quiet dignity with explosive violence. Cavill brings his own brand of intensity: the chiseled physique honed from years of playing Superman and Geralt of Rivia, combined with an emotional depth that shines through even in still photos. His Connor looks older, more scarred by centuries—wet hair plastered to his forehead, eyes carrying the weight of endless loss, yet burning with unquenchable purpose.
The costume design in these first looks is a masterstroke. The long leather trench coat with fur collar evokes both classic noir detectives and modern anti-heroes, while the prominent sword—likely a custom claymore or katana hybrid—nods to the franchise’s signature weapon. It’s practical yet iconic, designed for Stahelski’s signature style: fluid, one-take fights where every swing, parry, and decapitation feels earned. Expect choreography that rivals John Wick‘s gun battles but with blades—fast, brutal, and balletic. The settings tease a globe-trotting narrative: misty Scottish moors for origin flashbacks, neon-drenched Hong Kong streets for modern duels, gritty New York alleys for climactic confrontations. This isn’t a faithful remake; it’s a reimagining that expands the mythos while staying true to the core: immortality as both gift and curse.
The supporting cast elevates the stakes to stratospheric levels. Russell Crowe steps into the mentor role of Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez, originally played by Sean Connery. Crowe’s gravitas and chemistry with Cavill (they shared the screen in Man of Steel) promise a powerful teacher-student dynamic—Ramírez guiding the reluctant Connor through the rules of immortality with wisdom, humor, and sword mastery. Dave Bautista embodies The Kurgan, the savage barbarian immortal who murdered Connor’s clan and now hunts him across centuries. Bautista’s physical presence and ability to play menacing yet layered villains make him a terrifying antagonist—think Clancy Brown’s original Kurgan but with even more raw power. Karen Gillan joins as Heather, Connor’s mortal wife whose tragic fate underscores the loneliness of eternal life. Marisa Abela plays Brenda Wyatt, the forensic scientist who becomes Connor’s ally and love interest in the modern era. Djimon Hounsou, Jeremy Irons, Max Zhang, and WWE star Drew McIntyre (as Connor’s brother Angus MacLeod) round out a roster dripping with talent.
Stahelski’s involvement is the secret weapon. The John Wick series transformed action cinema with its world-building, gun-kata precision, and emotional core beneath the violence. Applying that to Highlander—a story rich in lore, philosophy, and high-stakes duels—feels like destiny. Expect practical stunts, long takes, and fights that feel personal: every decapitation a transfer of essence, every Quickening a visual and emotional spectacle. The original film’s Queen soundtrack (“Who Wants to Live Forever,” “Princes of the Universe”) set an impossibly high bar; rumors suggest a modern score with orchestral swells and rock elements, possibly even Queen-inspired cues to honor the legacy.
These first-look photos have fans in a frenzy. Social media exploded with comparisons: “Cavill looks like he walked out of a cyberpunk fantasy,” “This is the Connor we’ve waited 40 years for,” “Stahelski + Cavill = unstoppable.” The images capture a man who has lived too long, loved and lost too much, yet refuses to yield. Connor MacLeod isn’t just fighting for survival—he’s fighting for meaning in a world that keeps changing while he remains the same. The reboot promises to explore that existential ache amid explosive action: What does it mean to be immortal when everyone you love dies? What price comes with ultimate power?
As production continues in Scotland, anticipation builds for trailers, more set photos, and eventually, a release likely in late 2027 or 2028. Amazon MGM Studios has a massive budget—over $100 million—and a star who commands global attention. This isn’t just another reboot; it’s a chance to revive a cult classic with modern spectacle and emotional depth. Henry Cavill, sword drawn, coat flowing, stands ready. The Gathering approaches. There can be only one—and right now, it looks like him.
The immortal war is back. And it’s never looked better.
