Highlander 3: The Sorcerer *** (1994, Christopher Lambert, Mario Van Peebles, Deborah Kara Unger) – Classic Movie Review 2333

Director Andrew Morahan’s 1994 second Highlander sequel is a fast-paced sci-fi fantasy action adventure thriller, with Christopher Lambert back for his fun third turn as the sword-fighting immortal Connor MacLeod. Melvin Van Peebles enlivens things considerably as the tattooed, nose-ringed, Mohican-cut immortal Kane the Sorcerer, an apparently invincible master of illusion who is out to get the Highlander.

It is one of those second sequels in which the action infuriatingly follows on from the first film, as if part two didn’t exist, though people who didn’t like part two Highlander 2: The Quickening might be grateful. On the other hand, as it takes place in the present day of 1994, it can be seen as a prequel to the second film. But as a sequel to the first Highlander, it follows it effectively.

Brad Mirman and William N Panzer’s somewhat pedestrian, familiar-feeling story is given a lift by some style in Morahan’s direction, zest in the performances, and vim in the action sequences, stunts and special effects. The screenplay is by Paul Ohl.

Also in the cast are Deborah Kara Unger, Mako, Raoul Trujillo, Jean-Pierre Perusse, Martin Neufeld and Daniel Do.

Cut versions at 99 minutes and 94 minutes. It is also known as Highlander: The Final Dimension.

Highlander: Endgame followed in 2000.

© Derek Winnert 2015 Classic Movie Review 2333

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