Polygon argues that the 1986 film Highlander was poorly received for good reason, despite later becoming a VHS cult favourite and launching a wider franchise. The article says Hollywood risks drawing the wrong lesson from its enduring fanbase as a Henry Cavill-led reboot approaches, potentially repeating the original’s overly sombre tone rather than embracing the premise’s inherent absurdity.

The original made $12.8 million against a $19 million budget and was heavily criticised on release, though its sword fights, Scottish scenery and fantasy concept are acknowledged as strengths. Its plot follows immortal Scottish warrior Connor MacLeod, who ultimately fights rival immortals in 1980s New York; the writer contends that Sean Connery’s lighter, more playful performance offered the kind of campy energy the film otherwise lacked. Early images from the reboot appear similarly gloomy, prompting concern that it will retain the same self-serious approach.