Amazon and United Artists in Final Talks to Acquire Highlander Rights
Amazon, MGM Studios, and its subsidiary, United Artists, are in final negotiations to secure the rights to reboot the iconic Highlander franchise. The new installment will star Henry Cavill in the lead role, with John Wick director Chad Stahelski set to helm the project. The film, developed for theatrical release, marks a major acquisition and creative shift for the cult-favorite fantasy saga.
The script is being written by Michael Finch, known for his work on John Wick: Chapter 4, promising a blend of high-octane action and mythic storytelling. According to reports, Amazon’s vision for the franchise aligned perfectly with Stahelski’s creative approach, making the studio a natural fit for the reboot.
A Modern Reimagining of the Cult Classic
Originally released in 1986, the first Highlander film starred Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery, telling the tale of immortal warriors locked in a centuries-spanning battle. The film, directed by Russell Mulcahy, became a cult hit, spawning four sequels, a TV series, and a fiercely loyal fanbase. The franchise’s catchphrase — “There can be only one” — remains iconic to this day.
This upcoming version will reportedly retain the central mythology of the immortals while updating the narrative and visuals for a contemporary audience. The film’s goal is to relaunch Highlander as a multi-platform franchise, with potential spin-offs, streaming series, and expanded lore in development.
Production Team with Blockbuster Experience
The reboot will be produced by Scott Stuber and Nick Nesbitt for United Artists, alongside Neal H. Moritz and Stahelski’s 87Eleven Entertainment. Patrick Wachsberger, who previously oversaw the franchise at Lionsgate, is also on board as executive producer.
Stuber’s involvement is a notable industry move, following his departure from Netflix in 2024 where he spearheaded global hits like Extraction and The Gray Man. His decision to help relaunch United Artists through Amazon MGM indicates a shift toward high-profile, theatrical tentpole films.
Henry Cavill’s Growing Relationship with Amazon
Cavill’s casting continues his growing partnership with Amazon MGM Studios, where he is also set to star in a live-action adaptation of Voltron directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber. Additionally, Cavill is deeply involved in the development of the Warhammer 40,000 cinematic universe, having partnered with Amazon to bring the beloved tabletop franchise to screens across multiple formats.
The actor, best known for his roles in The Witcher and as Superman in the DCEU, brings star power and action credibility to Highlander, adding to fans’ anticipation for a revival of the fantasy saga.
A Strategic Play for Franchise Expansion
United Artists’ acquisition of Highlander signals a broader ambition to revitalize iconic IPs under the Amazon banner. Stuber is already overseeing multiple high-profile projects, including Kill Your Darlings starring Julia Roberts, Edward Berger’s adaptation of journalist Evan Gershkovich’s memoir, and Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein for Netflix. These projects, combined with Highlander, reinforce Amazon’s strategy of positioning UA as a prestige studio with blockbuster appeal.
If all final negotiations go through, production on Highlander could begin as early as late 2025, setting the stage for a theatrical debut sometime in 2026.