Hot off “John Wick: Chapter 4,” Chad Stahelski is gearing up for his next big project: a reboot of “Highlander.”
Details about the upcoming film remain scarce, as it has languished in development hell for many years. Henry Cavill is set to star in the lead role.
This one’s had multiple production delays, Stahelski last mentioned that it would shoot in January, but then “Ballerina” needed some refining, more about that below. Regardless, he’s now telling Collider that “Highlander” starts production in September.
If everything works out in the next 24 hours, we’ll be shooting sometime in September. And in 2027 or 2028, you’ll be watching “Highlander.”
Recently, Deadline reported that Amazon/MGM and producer Scott Stuber had acquired the rights to Stahelski’s reboot. The script was written by Michael Finch, co-writer of “John Wick: Chapter 4.”
The film will no doubt showcase Stahelski’s signature style—balletic action, especially in sword fighting; it will probably be, stylistically speaking, very different from the 1986 original, which notoriously spawned three terrible sequels.
“It’s another opportunity to do a property that I love,” Stahelski told Collider. “I love what it’s about, I love working with immortality and love stories through time. I think it’s a good way to take a great period piece, and sci-fi, and mix them together.”
Initially, “Highlander” was supposed to shoot last fall, but then Stahelski got deeply involved in “Ballerina” for Lionsgate. Len Wiseman’s John Wick spinoff—starring Ana de Armas—had been delayed by a year, with additional action sequences and reshoots required. Stahelski was reportedly on set as a shadow director during those sessions. Some believe he completely took over for Wiseman.
Stahelski, 57, began his career as a stuntman, first gaining recognition as a stunt performer, coordinator, and Keanu Reeves’ double in 1999’s “The Matrix.” He transitioned to directing with 2014’s “John Wick,” and his filmography since has consisted exclusively of four ‘Wick’ installments. “Highlander” will mark his first directing project outside of that franchise.
Of course, we all know the rule: take these reactions with a grain of salt rather than treating them as gospel. Still, I will say that the film tested like gangbusters earlier this year, and Lionsgate clearly has confidence.