A cult classic described as “visionary” and “extraordinary” is set to leave BBC iPlayer in just a few days – giving fans of science fiction and fantasy one final chance to revisit, or finally discover, one of the boldest genre blends of the 1980s.
Highlander (1986), directed by Russell Mulcahy, is widely considered a genre-defining work that combines sword-and-sorcery visuals with modern urban action.
The film stars Christopher Lambert as Connor MacLeod, a Scottish Highlander born in the 1500s who discovers he is immortal after surviving a fatal wound in battle. Mentored by the charismatic Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez (Sean Connery), MacLeod learns that he is one of many immortals fated to fight to the death across time. The last surviving immortal will claim “The Prize” – a mysterious reward linked to ultimate power and knowledge.
Set partly in medieval Scotland and partly 1980s New York, Highlander unfolds through flashbacks and sword fights, and explores love, loss, and the psychological toll of living for centuries while everyone else around you dies.
Much of the film’s distinctive look comes from Mulcahy’s fast-paced, music video-style direction – no surprise given his work on 1980s promos for Duran Duran and Elton John. But it’s the soundtrack, courtesy of Queen, that elevates Highlander.
The band provided multiple songs, including ‘Princes of the Universe’ and the haunting ‘Who Wants to Live Forever’, both of which became anthems for fans of the film and for Queen’s own legacy.
Over time, Highlander gained cult status. On Rotten Tomatoes, where it holds a 69% score, fans now express their affection. One reviewer wrote: “Highlander is a visionary action/sci-fi film which deftly explores themes of eternal life, the temptation of power, and true love.”
Another praised its originality and bold style: “It’s THE fantasy movie. No movie has ever done sword and sorcery in a modern day setting like Highlander. Not even close. I’m going to go ahead and call a spade a spade: this is the greatest action movie of all-time. Queen’s score, Clancy Brown, Christopher Lambert, Sean Connery, Roxanne Hart, Beatie Edney… Russell Mulcahy’s revolutionary, music video-style directing; this is as good as movies get.”
“Certainly better than anything else that’s came out in the past decade”, a third added.
Some viewers also link its enduring appeal to Queen’s fanbase: “An extraordinary cult classic movie that will endure for so many many generations. Not only with the cinema fans but also Queen fans.”
Though it struggled at the US box office upon release, Highlander went on to inspire multiple sequels, a TV series, and comic books. A reboot has long been in development, with John Wick director Chad Stahelski attached in recent years.
Highlander (1986) is streaming on BBC iPlayer – but will be removed from the platform on June 9.