Highlander may often be referred to as a “cult” hit from the 80s, but with four film sequels, a cartoon series, an anime movie, two video games, and two live action series–it’s hard to argue it’s not a bona fide franchise. And while the upcoming remake of Highlander may not generate the same interest as this fall’s Star Trek remake, that doesn’t absolve it from trying hard to be good. The following five tidbits should help the franchise find its footing again.
Ignore all previous continuity, or lack thereof
While the term “remake” may seem to make it clear that the previous films will be ignored, you can never be too sure. While many fans will scoff at any writing off of Connor or Duncan, the truth is that both of their tales have become too convoluted to carry on. In fact, the original Highlander film wrote off the possibility of any sequels and the franchise has suffered trying to write around that gaping plot hole ever since.
Simply ignore it. Pretend those films, cartoons, etc. never happened. Start the franchise truly anew. However, that may lead to a few issues.
Do not ignore the core ideas of Highlander
While it may be fine to pretend the events of the original Highlander universe never happened, it will be much more difficult to rewrite the rules in the new film. The producer has said he’d like to add more back story and “prequel” elements. That sounds an awful lot like more flashbacks, which is one of the key ingredients in the series.
So, that’s fine, but tampering with other things really isn’t. For one, the holy ground rule is essential to the idea of Highlander. It gives the concept soul and hints at some greater meaning to it all. Along with that, the TV series’ idea of the Watchers was very much liked by most, and it would be sad to completely toss that aside.
Embrace the past
As noted in the previous point, the producer seems to be hinting at many flashbacks. That’s good, as Highlander gets much of its appeal from its time-sweeping storyline. Take away the Renaissance fair-style flashbacks and you lose a lot of fans.
Doubt that? Just search sometime for the number of fans who dress up like Highlander characters. The cosplay quotient is fairly high. Still, a diversity of locations would benefit the new film. The series showed everything from feudal Japan to lavish French interiors. Don’t limit the background to just the highlands of Scotland.
God save the Queen
Whatever you do, it just wouldn’t be Highlander without the Queen soundtrack. You can remix it or use it in inventive new ways, but it needs Queen just like Flash Gordon does.
Spend some time on the sword fights
If you have seen Highlander: The Source (and you shouldn’t), then you know one of the biggest letdowns were the sword fights, or complete lack thereof. You can’t have Highlander without people fighting with swords, and you might as well not have that if you can’t make them entertaining. Bring in the best choreographers you can find and spend some real time working on the fight scenes.
Do not simply try to cover up for bad fight scenes with quick cutting and special effects. Highlander isn’t really an action franchise as much as it is a romance. But when you do turn to action, make sure it is top notch or else you’re pitching nothing but a romantic drama in kilts. Even Mel Gibson knew better than that with Braveheart.
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