Highlander Reboot: Djimon Hounsou Becomes an Immortal Warrior

The cast of the "Highlander" reboot continues to grow: The industry magazine The Hollywood Reporter has learned that Djimon Hounsou has been cast. Hounsou is a true Hollywood veteran. He had his breakthrough in the film "Amistad" by master director Steven Spielberg. He achieved greater fame through his role in the historical epic "Gladiator", for example. He was also seen alongside Leonardo DiCaprio in the action thriller "Blood Diamond". Hounsou was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance. Marvel fans may also recognize him from "Guardians of the Galaxy". Most recently, the actor was part of the ensemble of Zack Snyder's "Rebel Moon". In "Highlander", he is now set to play an immortal African warrior.

The Cast of Highlander

The actor joins an illustrious cast, led by fan favorite Henry Cavill. The action star takes on the leading role of Connor MacLeod. In the 1986 original, the protagonist was played by Christopher Lambert. For Hounsou, it will be a "Gladiator" reunion with Russell Crowe, who appears as the mentor Ramirez. Hounsou also reunites with his "Guardians of the Galaxy" co-stars: both Karen Gillan and Dave Bautista are part of the new "Highlander" cast. Bautista plays the antagonist Kurgan, while Gillan portrays Heather MacLeod, the mortal wife of Connor.

"Industry" star Marisa Abela takes on the role of a completely new character not present in the original. She portrays an immortal teacher of swordplay who had a romantic relationship with the protagonist in the past. It is still unclear whether Hounsou's character has been cast as an antagonist or will fight alongside Henry Cavill's Connor MacLeod.

The film will be directed by Chad Stahelski. The former stuntman has already proven his talent for directing action movies with his "John Wick" saga. Filming of the "Highlander" reboot is scheduled to begin at the end of September. However, a theatrical release date has yet to be announced. Find out more in our movie preview!

Highlander: the cult film from the 80s

With the planned remake of "Highlander", a classic film that thrilled fans around the globe almost four decades ago is back in the spotlight. When "Highlander" was released in 1986, hardly anyone could have imagined that the film starring Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery would become one of the iconic cult films of the 80s. What may seem like a fantasy action film with quirky elements at first glance turned out to be a pop culture phenomenon over the years.

The plot

At the center of the story is Connor MacLeod, a Scottish highlander from the 16th century who turns out to be an immortal. He can only be killed by decapitation – a truth he learns from the experienced immortal Juan Sánchez Villa-Lobos Ramírez (Sean Connery). As the centuries pass, MacLeod becomes embroiled in a fight to the death with other immortals. The finale takes place in New York in the 80s, where MacLeod has to face his most dangerous adversary, the brutal Kurgan.

Why is Highlander so popular?

The appeal of "Highlander" lies in its unique blend of fantasy, historical film and rock music. The leap in time between eras gives the movie an epic dimension. The idea of immortals fighting each other over centuries was as fresh as it was fascinating at the time of its release. The soundtrack is also iconic.

Cultural significance and legacy

"Highlander" quickly became a cult film through video releases and television broadcasts. The mythologically charged story and the famous quotes became part of pop culture. Several sequels and a TV series followed in the 90s, further expanding the myth – albeit with fluctuating quality.

Despite (or perhaps because of) its sometimes exaggerated staging, unconventional cast and style-defining music, "Highlander" is considered a film that bravely wanders between genres and has created something unique in the process. "Highlander" is therefore a prime example of how an original concept, strong images and iconic music can create a place in film history.