'Visionary' sci-fi film to be axed from streaming in just a few days
A cult classic hailed as "visionary" and "extraordinary" is on the brink of departing from BBC iPlayer in mere days. This is therefore the last opportunity for aficionados of sci-fi and fantasy to either revisit or uncover for the first time one of the most audacious fusions of genres from the 1980s.
The 1986 film Highlander, under the direction of Russell Mulcahy, has earned its stripes as a seminal piece that melds the aesthetics of sword-and-sorcery with contemporary urban action. Starring Christopher Lambert, the film follows Connor MacLeod, a Scottish Highlander from the 1500s who, after surviving a seemingly lethal wound in battle, comes to realise his immortality.
Under the guidance of the enigmatic Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez, portrayed by Sean Connery, MacLeod is schooled in the ways of the immortals, destined to duel to the death through the ages, with the sole survivor claiming "The Prize" - an enigmatic boon tied to absolute power and enlightenment.
Spanning the medieval highlands of Scotland to the bustling streets of 1980s New York, Highlander weaves its narrative through a tapestry of flashbacks and clashing swords, delving into themes of love, bereavement, and the existential burden of eternal life amidst the mortality of others.
The film's unique visual flair owes much to Russel Mulcahy's dynamic, music video-inspired directorial approach, reflecting his background crafting promos for iconic 1980s acts like Duran Duran and Elton John.
Yet, it is the soundtrack by Queen that truly propels Highlander to greater heights, reports the Express. The band contributed a host of tunes to the film.
These included 'Princes of the Universe' and the evocative 'Who Wants to Live Forever', both tracks cementing their place as anthems for Highlander enthusiasts and Queen's enduring influence.
Over the years, Highlander has ascended to cult status. With a score of 69% on Rotten Tomatoes, fans have taken to the platform to share their adoration.
One critic wrote: "Highlander is a visionary action/sci-fi film which deftly explores themes of eternal life, the temptation of power, and true love." Another lauded its distinctiveness and audacity: "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."
Another person wrote: "Certainly better than anything else that's came out in the past decade."
Some viewers also link its sustained allure to the fanbase of Queen: "An extraordinary cult classic movie that will endure for so many many generations. Not only with the cinema fans but also Queen fans."
Despite its initial struggle at the US box office, Highlander has spawned a plethora of sequels, a television series, and graphic novels. There's been chatter about a reboot for some time, with John Wick's Chad Stahelski being recently attached to direct.
Highlander (1986) is currently available on BBC iPlayer, but it will be taken off the platform on 9 June.
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