Movie Review by Neil Sadler
Starring: Christopher Lambert, Sean Connery, Clancy Brown, Jon Polito, Roxanne Hart
Director: Russell Mulcahy
Spawning sequels and a TV series, it’s easy to forget how cheesy Highlander is. This Immortal edition is the definitive UK edition of a true 80’s classic but sometimes whilst watching it, you wonder what all the fuss is about and why it has become such a classic.
There are glaring plot-holes (which to his credit director Russell Mulcahy is only to happy to acknowledge.) The dialogue is wooden and acting most notable for Christopher Lambert’s strangely cosmopolitan accent – sort of Franco-Scottish-American.
The flashbacks and non-linear storytelling are familiar now, but at the time were quite revolutionary. The Scottish scenery is beautiful. Video director Mulcahy gives the film a glossy, neon sheen that, although dated, suits the high-blown mythological nature of the story well.
And it is the story that transcends the cheese. There is something quite epic about Highlander so that even when it is ridiculous, it is enjoyable. This is helped by the likes of Sean Connery, who despite being the only Spanish immortal in existence to speak with a thick Scottish brogue, still manages to make the dialogue sound important and adds humour and depth when it is needed.
The effects and the look are dated and it hasn’t fared as well as some of the other classics of the era such as Blade Runner, but is still an enjoyable romp. This probably won’t reach any new converts, but fans will enjoy the crisp print and amusingly honest extras.
This edition includes a 90 minute documentary on the making of, a new commentary and assorted interviews.
