review by Grant Berridge Crew
Highlander 1986
Rewatched Oct 23, 2011
Grant Berridge’s review:
The immortal Connor MacLeod (Luke Skywalker) begins life as a normal chap in 16th century Scotland, but is cast out of his village under suspicion of devilry when he miraculously recovers from an obviously fatal battle wound.
Sean Connery stars as Ramiraz (Ben Kenobe), and trains the young highlander (Jedi) in the art of swordplay and use of The Quickening (The Force).
A tall warrior in black with a breathing problem (caused by an injury sustained in battle with Ramiraz), named (Darth) Victor Kruger mysteriously turns out not to be Connor's dad. Kruger relentlessly pursues and kills all the other Jedi until only he and the Highlander remain.
In New York, 1986, the two remaining warriors face a climactic battle for the ultimate prize (undisclosed).
Throughout all this, the peerless 1980s rock band, Queen, belt out some heart-rendingly epic melodies, scored specifically for this film. Even if you haven't seen Highlander, I'll bet that you've heard and adored at least 3 songs from its classic soundtrack.
I just love this film. It's a gritty and dark fantasy epic in one scene, and then a farcical comedy in the next. There are profound themes of love and loss, with the loneliness of immortality explored beautifully. Some of the set pieces are just stunningly presented.
The cinematography is mostly spectacular, although some of the effects are more like Princess Bride than Lord of the Rings.
A classic and a masterpiece. Highly, highly recommended.
I love your review of this. I think maybe more than I loved the film... but I think I am missing the "I wanna be him when I grow up" thing that every boy brought to this film in the 80s.
Crew
Thanks! I think you're probably right. Although I think it's more along the lines of an "I'm gonna find out that I'm immortal soon, too" sort of philosophy.