Highlander: The Final Dimension (1994) User Reviews

The best sequel yet, but it still can't hold a candle to the original

[KnightLander · 4/10 · 20 June 2005]

In 1995, with the enormous international success of the "Highlander" TV series, producers Bill Panzer and Pete Davis once again teamed up to unleash another "Highlander" sequel upon us. This time, it's "Highlander III: The Sorcerer" or, as it was known in the U.S., "Highlander: The Final Dimension". (Don't ask me where the hell that came from) The film finds Connor MacLeod (Christopher Lambert) enjoying a peaceful life with his adopted son, deceived that he has won the Prize. However, the evil sorcerer Kane (Mario Van Peebles) has broken free from the Japanese mountain he was entombed in, and now he wants the Highlander's head.

One of the parts of the film I enjoyed the most was Christopher Lambert's portrayal of Connor. For once the character isn't a severely depressed maniac, and in fact, he's better in this film than any other. Mario Van Peebles makes a good, if not unbelievable villain, with Deborah Unger as the sexy Highlander girl.

Andy Morahan's direction is good. The script is good and very entertaining, but the film's problem is this: although it has all the right materials to make a good film, they are either wasted, put in the wrong place or dropped quickly. It makes you wonder if the franchise is cursed.

The film's score, by J. Peter Robinson, was very nice as well. Loreena McKennit's "Bonny Portmore", featured twice in the film, is a beautiful and outstanding song that has now become the theme for the series.

All in all, while "Highlander III" (Sorcerer/Final Dimension) is an entertaining film, it can't come anywhere near comparing to the original film, although it is a major improvement over "Highlander II".

Nothing special, but it has some good moments...

[swedzin · 5/10 · 24 February 2010]

From my point of view, this was an attempt to put back puzzle in normal after the terrible "Highlander 2 - The Quickening" sequel. Well, they did it, but still, the film is nothing special. What I like about is film... it has a very different way of telling story, different tempo of the proceeding through the film. In a way, it's a kind of lemonade film... a quite relaxing. Everything is relaxing and nothing special, just like some kind of TV film from "Hallmark", you know, when come back home, after the work, you eat something, than you sit back, or lie down on your favorite couch and you stumble upon this film, and then you just relax.

Simply nothing is touching you so deep about this film, everything is hollow. Everything is like "oh, OK", "oh, they have a sword fight, right", "allrighty", "nothing here..." "that's good..." in kinda boring way.

Actors: Christopher Lambert - wooden, doing nothing but talks like a bored Frenchman. Deborah Kara Unger - about her later. Just keep reading. Mario Van Peebles - his performance was funny, He keep it creepy and ugly, the way his character is supposed to be, well that's his way to perform it, his way to see this character, but it was weird that he keeps remind us on Kurgan, and that pig growls... damn... spit out those slimes from your throat... Jesus! Mako - His "guest role" was fine and relaxing as a great Japanese immortal sword master. And to mention Raoul Trujillo (warrior 2) from "Apocalypto" and "True Blood" season one (the Longshadow vampire dude), it was interesting to see him from his younger days.

OK - now for the highlight of review... Probably the best thing in whole film, was no more or no less - the SEX scene! The sex scene between Christopher Lambert and Deborah Kara Unger was more than impressive! Wow, they did it without a double. That was a real talent between the two of them. Good movements and good "coreography" during the sexual "work", combined with a "f..kable music during the scene. The sex scene music was more than exciting, it's like... the band members were there, watching the horny couple and they composed the music on the spot and say, "allright, let's perform it!" Damn... that was good. Too bad I can't find a soundtrack. For me, this sex scene is 'number uno' in the motion picture history. The Best. About Deborah Kara Unger... her performance in film was so not interesting, that everybody expect thesame "Go on, Connor! F..k her!!!" YEeeeeeeeahhh!!!! They did it!! To mention about music, it was also a fine thing, it was good and relaxing. Highlander - The Sorcerer film is nothing more than, relax... take it easy... but you'll get horny during the sex scene he he.

Mildly entertaining - An improvement over II

[mstomaso · 4/10 · 4 December 2005]

Just to be up-front about this - I enjoy these films. The original - Highlander - was the only one in the series which really stands the test of time (Endgame has now joined it in this), and stands head and shoulders above the others for artistic merit and originality, but still, I liked the others well enough.

I also like the much maligned Christopher Lambert. He's an odd actor to be sure - far from the Hollywood norm in appearance, style and accent, but he's nothing if not original and once you understand his understated style, you might just see that the guy has some serious talent. Read on if these statements resonate with you. Otherwise, feel free to move on without reading or rating this review.

Lambert is good, Unger is good, Van Peebles is campy as hell, alternating between absurdist humor and menacing poseur-ship.

The script is OK, certainly less grandiose and more mindless than II (and closer to the original in feeling, pace and plot), but not particularly original.

The production values are a slight step up from II, about as good as Endgame, and almost up to the original's standards.

Conor McLeod has reclaimed something of his humanity - imagining himself to be the last immortal on earth, but of course, he is wrong. Sorcerer Kane, who has stolen the magic of one of McLeod's former teachers, is hunting his head. McLeod has adopted a child and is about to fall in love again, the last thing he needs is an attack by an enemy who has no corporeal body.

The film is entirely predictable, and is nothing more than a fan film. So what? It's harmless entertainment with some very pretty scenes from Scotland and some other gorgeous landscapes, and, if you don't expect much, you might just have a good time with it.

Several good elements come together here!

[jexlin01 · 28 July 2004]

A good revenge plot drives this third Highlander installment. An old enemy similar to the Kurgan of the first film, escapes an entombment after 400 years and begins a quest for the head of McLeod. Kane- the Sorceror -makes a great villain and blends into modern America easily with his tattoos and piercings. The film also boasts some Conan elements with Mako again playing a wizard named Nagano and there also some f/x similar to T-2 as the sorceror's power is made apparent. Debra Unger is also a plus as a smokin' leading lady who provides the best and sweatiest sex scene of the "Highlander" cycle. There are also some great locales used in the film. From snowy Japan to African deserts to the Scottish Highlands, the film features all three beautifully. McLeod also has an adopted son and is hounded by a new NYC detective who is wise to his immortal habits. But through it all, he keeps his cool demeanor. However, the soundtrack leaves much to be desired. 7/10. Check out the DVD!

Poor copycat movie of the first one. It really feels as if the Highlander story has no more to give us

[ivo-cobra8 · 1/10 · 16 October 2016]

*SPOILERS*

Highlander III: The Sorcerer (1994) is a poor copycat movie of the first one in the franchise. This is a far superior film to Highlander II but it is really a copy of the first one. ... It really feels as if the Highlander story has no more to give us but that would be very wrong. It used to be my second favorite film in the franchise but not anymore!! Christopher Lambert returns as Connor MacLeod as the protagonist who has to face against a new dangerous and powerful enemy; An extremely powerful sorcerer known as Kane (Mario Van Peebles) who threatens to win the fabled "Prize" in order to gain world domination by eliminating Macleod.

Plot: Deceived that he had won the Prize, Connor MacLeod awakens from a peaceful life when an entombed immortal magician comes seeking the Highlander.

This movie has a tons of problems while people are trashing Highlander II: The Quickening idiots! You give this hack job of a movie a better rating than Highlander 2: Renegade Version?! This is a joke. Highlander 3 is at its best when it's ripping off the first film and at its worst when it tries to add in sub-plots that go no-where.

Connor MacLeod has suddenly a son? Really? Are you people that stupid! The immortals can't have kids! Why would MacLeod adopt a son is stupid and ridicules! Brenda is suddenly killed in this movie with a weird explanation! Kane The Sorcerer (Mario Van Peebles) want's to win the fabled "Prize" in order to gain world domination. Haven't we saw that in the first movie when the Kurgan wanted to win the "Prize" by eliminating MacLeod?!

Lt. John Stenn (Martin Neufeld) says the dialogues like that he was in the first movie, when in fact the character was never mentioned or seen in the first movie!!!!! The character Lt. John Stenn miraculously disappears from the movie without any explanation!

Kane The Sorcerer (Mario Van Peebles) kidnaps MacLeod's fake son ( Gabriel Kakon) and uses him as bait by playing the same trick with a car that The Kurgan played on Brenda by kidnapping her and dragging her in the car and hitting people on the street. I saw that scene in the first movie already gosh!

Kane The Sorcerer (Mario Van Peebles) has sex with a prostitute, haven't we already see that in the first movie?

The end of a sword fight the battle in the power plant when we see the sword battle between MacLeod and Kane, during the battle you can see a stuntman for Christopher Lambert doing the sword fights which the fight is a fake! Why is doing a stuntman all the work for Christopher Lambert? Couldn't he do it his stunts him self, like he did in the second one?!

Why this movie has so many titles? It is stupid! The Sorcerer, The Magician, The Final Dimension and The Final Conflict?! That is beyond stupid! Like producers didn't know what title they should use for this movie! Geesh!

What is so epic about this movie than we saw in the first two movies? I think with the power plant this movie tried to rip off Terminator 2 and I Come in Peace (1990)!

This movie is rated PG-13 not R, the first two movies a rated R not PG-13 you morons!

I am sorry, but this is a terrible awful film! The only thing I liked in this movie is the song Bonny Portmore by Loreena McKennitt. It tried to follow the story the of the first film which it ruined with coping it! I liked that the film was also shot in Castle Tioran, Lochaber, Highland, Scotland, UK that is the only thing I liked. I also like MacLeod making his own sword and the song Bonny Portmore is played by Loreena McKennitt that was epic. There are almost only three things I liked about this movie.

I also liked Highlander entering abandoned power plant for the final battle I like that and I like the music score playing during the fight. that is all.

The rating is F 1/10 for me I am not reviewing Endgame and The Source they both suck and they are even worst than this one!

1/10 Score: F Studio: Miramax Films Starring: Christopher Lambert, Mario Van Peebles, Deborah Unger, Mako Director: Andrew Morahan Producer: Claude Léger Screenplay: Paul Ohl René Manzor, Brad Mirman Story by Brad Mirman William N. Panzer Rated: PG-13 Running Time: 1 Hr. 39 Mins. Budget: $26.000.000 Box Office: $36,800,000

What were they thinking?

[kenmhall1 · 1/10 · 1 November 2002]

What were they thinking? Andrew Morahan directing? Ok, so he's directed some videos...woo-hoo...This has to be one of the worst movies I've seen, which is sad because I was looking forward to it. The original was amazing, the second was a big let down (who really wanted to know they were aliens? keep the mystery/fantasy of it), well the third is a downright insult. How many ripoffs from the original did you count? The acting was atrocious. I mean, come on, Peebles was better in New Jack City - and that's not saying much. I was hard pressed to listen to his raspy voice through the whole movie (can you say the 'Kurgan') just waiting for it to get better. When he kidnapped the kid and was driving around all crazy...hmmm...another 1st movie flashback...The effects were pathetic...1000 monkeys, 1000 pc's, 1000 copies 3D StudioMax...you get the idea.

At least Endgame is mildly redeeming (though not by much).

It's a kind of magic(less) sequel...

[fmarkland32 · 4/10 · 31 July 2006]

Christopher Lambert reprises his role as Connor McCleod who this time goes up against an evil immortal Kane(Van Peebles in a terrible performance) who is thawed out of suspended animation, of course once he defrosts, it's up to McCleod to put him (back) on ice. I admit that this is probably my favorite sequel, only because the beginning reminds me of kung fu sequel, with Mako teaching Lambert swordsmanship and kung fu, however that aside the movie is fairly uninspired but not too dull and really it makes logical sense, even in comparison with the original (The only sequel to do so.) The suspended animation thing is a lame way to bring up a new enemy but at least it doesn't explain that they are from a different planet, or completely contradict the original like the fourth. The fight sequences are decent and the production values while somewhat cheap play passably on screen, so overall it's a mediocre sequel. Nothing special but at least semi-watchable.

* * out of 4-(Fair)

So-so sequel with immortal Connor MacLeod/Lambert battling master illuisionist Kane/Van Peebles

[ma-cortes · 5/10 · 22 April 2022]

This is a follow-up to Highlander 1986, the latter continued by three inferior sequels with similar players and a TV series .Connor McCloud (Christopher Lambert) is a sixteenth century Scottish clansman , he was born in 1518 , he's an immortal , a member of a limited group struggling each other throughout the times , but only can live ¨the one¨ . Centuries ago one man was chosen to protect all that is good. Throughout time they have hunted each other fulfilling the prophecy, that there can be only one. From dawn of times they came moving silently down through the centuries and Connor discovers an arch-enemy (Mario Van Peebles) who was once buried beneath a mystical mountain along with three other warriors some 3oo years before. Kane is seeking an incredible power for ruling the world ; subsequently , they nowadays are battling in N. Y. streets . Besides , an investigator/archaeologist named Alex Johnson (Deborah Kara Unger) is investigating the events and finds out the dark secrets and soon they fall in love with each other. But Kane is going after him . Then , Macleod returns to his old Scottish stomping grounds to prepare for battle . The final conflict. This time it's for eternity. One man was choosen to protect all that is good. Now an enemy from the past journeys time to challenge him in the present.

Largely panned by the critics, but it has some surprisingly nice scenes, and with overwhelming duels , colorful scenarios and including numerous images in video-clip style . .The picture displays noisy action , derring-do, adventure , spectacular combats, dumb script and breathtaking outdoors which are a treat for the sight . The flick is starred by a known cast , giving functional performances , such as : Christopher Lambert as Connor MacLeod / Russell Nash , he's a fighter from four centuries ago with an eternal confrontation since Middle Age against his fellow headhunter immortal , Mario Van Peebles as an extremely hammy called Kane , Deborah Kara Unger as research scientist Alex Johnson / Sara, Mako and Raoul Max Trujillo . Although I miss Sean Connery who played the sympathetic Ramirez in a terrific and meaty role . Sean Connery and Christopher . Christopher Lambert had just barely learned to speak English when he took this role , the only other English-speaking film he had been in at that point was Greystoke, (1984), in which he spoke only a few words . In addition, notorious secondaries as Mario Van Peebles and Raoul Trujillo play magnificently two shamelessly villainous people . The film contains exciting and thrilling musical score by J. Peter Robinson and some catching songs . Mesmerizing and wonderful landscapes well photographed by cameramen Francois Aubry and Steven Chivers . The motion picture was regularly directed by Andrew Morahan. Original theatrical release was PG13 and 94 minutes, but the director''s cut has been re-edited and footage added with some strong love scenes. Rating : 4.5/10, average.

The series is formed by the following ones : ¨Highlander¨ 1986 , a cult favorite that spawned weak sequels, directed by Russell Mulcahy with Christopher Walken , Sean Connery , Clancy Brown , Roxanne Hart, it was a sensational and spectacular movie . Lambert got along so well during filming that they called each other by their characters' names even when they were not filming and it was at Lambert's insistence that Connery and his character as his preceptor , he's a medieval cavalier, a tough warrior under command of emperor Charles I ,returning for the failed¨Highlander II : The quickening¨(91) by Mulcahy with Virginia Madsen , Michael Ironside , John C. MacGinley . Highlander 3 : Final dimension¨ by Andy Morahan with Mario Van Peebles. And ¨Endgame¨ (2000) by Douglas Aamiokoski with Adrian Paul , Bruce Payne, Donnie Yen, Walken and following a long TV series with Adrian Paul as starring.

* OUT OF FIVE

[bronsonskull72 · 2/10 · 11 July 2003]

Christopher Lambert returns again as Connor McCleod the immortal who won the prize, however a nemesis who is thawed out of suspended animation returns to reclaim the prize in this cheap sequel which is more of a knock off of the original rather then a sequel. Mind numbingly low rent and poor actionscenes make this a movie with no redeeming value.

Great music

[Milhaud · 6/10 · 25 March 2000]

The other reviews say it all : you will have a good time watching this film if you don't expect something too smart or original but just wish to be entertained with some action and fantastic images.

But I wish to add that paying attention to the music is also worth the shot. From the eerie chants in the most unsettling moments to the timeless Celtic songs accompanying the grandiose shots and peaceful passages, the music is a faithful and enhancing companion to the plot.

somewhat of a repeat of the original

[SnoopyStyle · 4/10 · 3 February 2016]

After his wife Heather's death, Connor MacLeod (Christopher Lambert) travels to Japan to train under sorcerer Nakano (Mako). Kane (Mario Van Peebles) and his henchmen arrives to defeat Nakano. Connor escapes when the Quickening collapses the cave trapping Kane. In the present day, archaeologists led by Dr. Alexandra Johnson (Deborah Kara Unger) excavates the cave. Kane and his men finally dig themselves out. Meanwhile, Connor is living with his adopted son. Brenda Wyatt is dead. Connor has to defeat Kane and his henchmen. Dr. Johnson finds a piece of MacLeod tartan in the cave which leads her to Connor. She looks like his lover Sarah Barrington who he knew in 18th century France.

It's a big improvement over the second movie. However, it leaves one feeling deja vu. The main story elements are essentially a repeat of the original. The new bad guy does have morphing capabilities but everything else feels inferior. It's bad enough that they recycled the old script. The execution is sadly inferior.

*Contains Spoilers*

[Bruce_Lambert · 9/10 · 3 April 2002]

What I liked best about this movie was that it (unlike part 2) refers to the first Highlander.I really enjoyed the addition of the sorcerer in this movie also, it added more challenge for Connor, but unfortunately, not enough challenge. Apparently Connor didn't really recieve the prize in the first movie and forgot about Kane, an immortal trapped in a mountain for 400 years, whom he now must face to discover who will be the one. I really liked this movie, Christopher Lambert is great.

The most consistent Highlander sequel, but still a mess

[AgentFauxMulder · 7/10 · 17 October 2016]

Highlander sequels are notorious for being awful, and for ignoring the previous movies. This movie, however is different in how not different it is: it's basically a campy remake of Highlander. But now with magic.

The plot is Connor has won The Prize, but has done nothing with it. Centuries before, a Japanese mage removed 3 immortals from The Game by cursing them and trapping them in a cave. An excavation releases them, taking away The Prize and resuming The Game.

Mario Van Peebles tries to replace Clancy Brown's Kurgan, but his villain just isn't that interesting, except for his periodic sorcery. His character feels like a weak ripoff.

There's good stuff for fans in here, the Holy Ground fight for instance. There's an incredible sequence set to Bonny Portmore. The movie tries to recapture the original, but in ridiculous ways and with a classic movie sin: introducing a kid.

The name didn't help the movie: it was called both The Sorcerer and The Final Dimension, the latter having nothing to do with the film, and the box wrongly suggests it involves time travel.

This movie isn't amazing, and it's nowhere near as good as Highlander, but it washed the taste of Highlander 2 away (as much as it could), and in my opinion is the true sequel to Highlander.

I Kinda like it

[mt1768 · 5/10 · 19 September 2013]

What can you say about the highlander sequels. Highlander II and Highlander the source are prime examples of complete cinematic failure and Highlander Endgame is just below average.

I have heard a a lot of people say that this film is just terrible and barley any better than Highlander 2. This is a point I disagree with. While this movie has quiet a few problems, the biggest of which the story being almost completely duplicating the first. there are definitely are a few things that are good.

What is good. In my humble opinion I think that that the performances are not half bad, both Christopher Lambert and Mario Van Peebles are good in their roles. The Special effects, While not great, are well used and fluid. And lastly the Action sequences a reasonably well done, while far from being the best ever put to screen they are o.k.

As I said there are problems. The big one being, as I mentioned a bit further up, is the story. it is almost a complete copy of the first. Even a lot of the same things are done. such as the scene with Kane going in out of traffic with one of Conner's loved ones in the passenger seat.

All in all this is not that bad a film but some people may have trouble sitting through it.

Pretty Good Sequal to the original Highlander

[Swampthing316 · 12 October 2003]

(A word of warning there may be a few spoilers within so if you haven't seen this or any of the other films or the series I recommend you not read this yet)

First of all Highlander III: The sorcerer is the french title used for this film, I just thought I'd clear that up real quick.

Those of us that live in America know Highlander III as Highlander: The Final Dimension.

Highlander is extremely criticized due to the fact that Highlander II: The Quickening came before it. I look at it this way, Highlander II is like Halloween III it has nothing to do with the rest of the series the only exception is that it does involve Conner Macleod, unlike Halloween III which doesn't involve Michael Myers at all.

I did not see the theatrical version of Highlander: The Final Dimension, I just recently came across a copy of the R rated Directors Cut of this film. This cut of this film is excellent and it is a nice sequal to the original Highlander if you forget about Highlander II.

I think I can understand why this film was criticized, the theatrical version was probably released half assed with the scenes all cut up. The Directors Cut is pure and complete.

I'd like to comment on the love scene in this film between Conner and the female lead, it is almost on a pornographic level and it is no wonder that they wouldn't allow that to get into theatre's. It is greatly welcomed in this release though.

Mako does an excellent Job as Macleod's new trainer at the beginning of the film, he knows he is going to die and on at least three occasions gives Conner the opportunity to take his head, he idiotically refuses and his trainers powers fall into the hands of evil an evil that would hunt MaCloud many centuries later.

Those that say that this is a remake of the original are greatly mistaken and should rent the directors cut of this film and watch this one again.

MaCloud did win the prize in the original film, it just so happens that when the sorcerer is resurrected the game begins again,Macloud is actually defending the prize he already won, he gets an even greater prize when he kills the Sorcerer, he recieves the powers and knowledge of his trainer and his power of illusion, besides the overall prize.

Many have asked about Highlander: Endgame, this film only works if you think of it as many years later, this film also is based on the television series too, we have both Conner and Duncan in this one. IF you see the pilot of that show Conner is there, we learned that he trained Duncan after finding him almost dead after a battle. This film pretty much wraps up that series and it tries to finish off the film series as well, it is confusing but you can make sense out of it if you try. The Villian in that film tops them all as he doesn't care about the rules, in fact he breaks every one including the Holy Ground rule.

If anyone else can figure out the link between Highlander I, III, the series and Endgame, feel free to write another commentary with updated information and your own thoughts of what if.

Highlander: The Final Dimension is under-rated and the Directors Cut of this film should be viewed for best performance.

There can be only one, yes in the end there can be only one, we do not know when the end will be, it could be the end of time for all we know, immortals are always being born throughout the centuries and years, we don't know who they are or where they are, at the time end of time one man shall stand alone, at that point there can be only one, but it will be almost an eternity before every immortal is killed in fact the game has the potential to last an eternity.

Those were just some words to think about next time you watch any of the Highlander films(except II) and when you watch the show.

Worst of the bunch

[Tin Man-5 · 3/10 · 1 May 1999]

The first "Highlander" was a masterpiece, probably the smartest sci-fi film since "Star Wars."

Then came "Highlander II: The Quickening," which is regarded as the "Plan 9" of the 90's, though taken not too seriously, it was pretty good.

"Highlander: The Gathering" came next, a film made from splicing two episodes of the tv show together and releasing them as a full motion picture. It was a good effort, emphasizing on some new characters.

Now we have "Highlander: The Final Dimension," the latest installment in the "Highlander" film saga. It is truly a disappointment. I was really looking forward to this, since it was supposed to be a direct sequel to the first film. But instead, it's just plain disappointing. It doesn't even try to explain the movies' connection to the tv show, and it's basically a remake of the first film. Even the villain is a carbon-copy.

Christopher Lambert tries hard, but the plot is just too flimsy for anyone to take this seriously. The mentor characters are also dissapointing. "Highlander 1 and 2" had Sean Connery teaching Lambert, and his character was great. "The Gathering" had Lambert himself teaching a new guy, Adrian Paul. But the mentor in "Final Dimension" is played by Mako. He's a decent actor, but the character doesn't hold a candle to Connery or Lambert, and in a film about mentors and their students, he should have.

Beautiful Scottish footage (in the film's best scenes) and well-choreographed sword-fights can't save this from being disappointing. ** out of *****.

There can be only one sex scene.

[The Bronson Fan · 3/10 · 15 July 2005]

Most of you I'm sure are familiar with the Highlander TV series staring Adrian Paul. Well the movies in my opinion were never as good a the TV show, with the fist movie being the only redeeming one of the bunch. Part 3 is a pretty bad movie and my opinion has not changed since I first saw it ten years ago. Some on this board say its a remake of the first others say it continues from the first. Either way the movie is awful. The movie starts out way back when Connor Macleod (Lambert) leaves Scotland and sets out for his quest, I suppose. Eventually makes his way to Japan, where of course he comes across the master sorcerer Nakano (Mako). There he learns the way of the sword and how to fight. Ever seen Conan? Well so did the people who wrote this. While he becomes a better swordsman, evil is approaching. Kane (Mario Van Peebles), what an original name for evil, and along the way he shows how evil he is by burning down a small village in the dead of winter. Did I mention the movie Conan? Kane makes his way to Nakano's cave and beheads him taking his magic for himself, but becomes trapped in the cave until the movie is made. While Macleod has been trying to forget his past, a female archaeologist Alex Johnson (Unger) has managed to uncover the cave of the Wizard Nakano. As you guessed Kane is released and promptly beheads one of his thugs and sends the other after Macleod. Macleod senses something is up, returns to New York where we have a badly acted cop attempting to get him for previous murders. He mostly fails and Alex tracks him down using a piece of tartan found in the cave that revels who he is. Kane also finds him and of course they duel. Macleod loses and runs back to Scotland for no real reason. There he finds time to make a new sword and have sex with Alex, the hot female lead. You have just witnessed the best part of the movie so don't worry about the end, but I'll tell you anyway. Macleod once again confronts him and defeats him in a very anti climatic ending. There can be only one.

Defiantly not the worst movie I have ever seen, but this is certainly worthy of mention. As stated in my title, the only real reason to watch this movie is for the very well done directors cut sex scene. Deborah Unger is no joke! She is not only hot but certainly knows how to handle Lambert. I guess I'm not surprised that it had to be in the directors cut with what they show. By far the only entertaining part of this film. From the fight scenes to the special effects there just isn't much great about this movie. The acting is terrible. I'm not sure who is worse Lambert who can't act at all or Van Peebles who looks like a total moron in the film and acts like a idiot. Is there any point to Kane driving like a maniac with Macleod's kid in the car? What a waste of time and film. Unger at least is hot and who cares if she acts bad. The special effects were OK. For the time I would say they were maybe average. The story was also poor. Mako is wasted as the oriental master and could have been much better. Scene after scene was just boring and a waste. As mentioned the car scene, also many flashbacks, some were OK. Kane going to a hooker and putting a condom in his mouth, pretty stupid. How about Lambert getting shot and jacked in the streets then taken to hospital and thrown in the mental ward. Stupid. Keep an eye out for Kane's sword Dark Magic witch is a finely crafted sword. The on locations of Scotland and other places are good, but I didn't come for geography I want a good movie. Overall a very poor movie that actually spawned more sequels. If you want the best sex scene in a non porn film, this is it, if not watch the superior TV series with Adrian Paul. 3 out of 10...There can be only one!

At least it's not as bad as the second one.

[Boondocksaint1 · 5/10 · 20 February 2001]

Part 2 was just horrible. At least the storyline here is feasible. The evil immortal this time is almost a rehash of the Kurrgan, but at least he has some depth. Overall, it's not THAT bad......for casual Highlander fans, I say go ahead, but for serious fans....you will either like it for being Highlander, or hate it for being "Highlander Heresy".

Both better and worse than I remember

[KaZenPhi · 5/10 · 18 January 2021]

I wasn't sure what to expect revisiting Highlander 3 after 20 years. When I was about 11 I was somewhat obsessed with the Highlander movies (back when there was only three and a tv series that was even too cheesy for me), but except for the first one which I have rewatched every once in a while I had abandoned all hope for this franchise around the time the forth one came around, so I buried it along with other films from my childhood that aged badly and never looked back.

I am glad I ultimately gave highlander 3 another chance though in a random Christopher Lambert marathon.

Granted the story doesn't make a lick of sense and is nothing but the flimsiest of excuses to save a valueable property after the disaster that was Highlander 2, but a lot of the core strengths that made the original so compelling are still here. Fantastic visuals, an odd but unique performance by Christopher Lambert and a surprisingly touching emotional core that keeps it all together. Generally this is a very appealing movie to look at. Whereas the original was inspired by the videoclip aesthetic of the eighties, Highlander 3 takes after the early nineties action and thriller genre. Harsh shadows, highly saturated Oranges and Blues, fluent camera movements and the trademark transitions between past and present from the original. After the dreadful style of the second one that looked like cheap direct to video trash this is a nice return to form.

While the romance doesn't work quite as well as it did in the first one, there isn't too much focus on it, and yet it's still used well to drive home just how sad and lonely immortality would be. I always call Highlander the best vampire movie, because it manages to convey that tragedy much better than almost any vampire movie, safe maybe for interview with the vampire.

This doesn't feel like the cash grab it could well have been. It smells of fanfilm, albeit a very competent one and had it ended there it would have been a very satisfying conclusion to a flawed series, tying up all the plot points of the story in a nice bow.

So far this review sounds rather glowing, so other than the obvious reason that there should have never been any sequels, what drags this movie back down to a 5 out of 10? Well, the former doesn't help admittedly, and the script seems rushed and unoriginal to the point where this feels more like a soft reboot than a sequel. Also, and Highlander fans are going to hate me for this: for a franchise based solely on kickass swordfights the swordfights in all the Highlander movies are actually really bad and awkward. Some of this can actually be attributed to Christopher Lambert's bad eyesight so I will cut him some slack, but even when there's a double involved (sometimes rather obviously as in the finale here) it always looks like two dudes just swatting metal sticks against another, not as it should, like the dangerous blade dance of two masters who have honed their craft for centuries. In Highlander 3 they at least try to edit around these flaws. It works a little bit...

The music isn't bad, it has a few good moments but of course it can't compete with the absolute juggernaut that was the Queen score of the first one.

Another problem is Mario van Peebles' performance. He looks freaking cool and in a different story his character could have worked but the over the top silliness clashes with the much more interesting character drama. It feels too much like he's trying to mimic Clancy Brown's iconic performance from the first Highlander, but even that one felt more grounded and layered. The unoriginal script is bubbling through the cracks here, as so many villain-defining moments are basically copied from the original.

Ultimately this is a deeply flawed movie but still very satisfying if you grew up with the original. It feels like coming home after a long time. There's a lot more mold than you remember, but it's still cozy.

Highlander and the magician...

[Thanos_Alfie · 4/10 · 7 March 2021]

"Highlander III: The Sorcerer" is an Action - Fantasy movie and the third movie of the "Highlander" franchise, in which we watch Connor MacLeod trying to defend himself from an immortal magician. The immortal magician is searching the Highlander and Connor MacLeod has to understand whether or not he had won the Prize.

I found this movie interesting because of its plot and the interpretations of Christopher Lambert who played as Connor MacLeod / Russell Nash and Mario Van Peebles who played as Kane. If I compare it though with the two previous "Highlander" movies I would say that the third is the least enjoyable. As a "Highlander" fan I suggest you not to compare it with the two previous "Highlander" movies and I am sure that you will enjoy it it and you will have a great time watching it. All in all, I have to say that "Highlander III: The Sorcerer" is another fantasy movie that everybody needs to watch especially the "Highlander" fans.

A solid entry into the saga

[TJMBuddlake · 7/10 · 18 May 2012]

In my own words, I can say that this was a big improvement over Highlander 2. Its not as good as the first but a good solid entry into the Highlander saga. The story was OK, the cast was good, the special effects were still amazing and pretty much every way better than the previous crap movie. Christopher Lambert is back and he still has that glow for this character of Duncan Macleod. Now for the villain, Kane (not to be confused with the WWE superstar) he was a good villain but not as bad ass as Kurgan. Mario Van Peebles did a good job playing this relentless, cold-blooded, masochistic villain. Now for the female role, whoa! Deborah Unger! What can I say about her? Bold, Blonde, Beautiful and Banging! Now that's a major improvement over the other 2 female leads. (Not that it matters) Anyway, I do praise this movie for being a big improvement over the second film but its not as good as the original and others may not agree with me on this, but it is worth the time watching. This one was for the real highlander fans. Overall, 7 out of 10.

Awful, perhaps the worst movie ever made

[sayesele · 1/10 · 26 May 2001]

Not another excruciating Highlander sequel. Cardboard acting, incomprehensible plot...need I say more. Christopher Lambert is as wooden as ever, Mario van Peebles is laughably miscast as a supposedly Japanese (?!?) villain. The TV series of Highlander is far superior to the films.

A great sequel

[LevynLeenen · 8/10 · 25 November 2010]

First of all, let's forget Highlander II: The Quickening ever existed. This is a great and logical sequel to the first Highlander movie. Highlander II was a complete disaster and all copies of that movie should be burned. This is a vital thing to keep in mind if you want to enjoy any Highlander movie. Of course I did not expect much of this movie since it has a 3.9/10 rating. I suppose most of you did not watch the entire movie or simply fast forwarded it because of the disaster that is The Quickening. Highlander III is a decent sequel and unfortunately does not get the credit it deserves. If you enjoyed Highlander, I'm sure you will enjoy Highlander III.

not perfect

[doyouwannabeinmy · 6/10 · 6 July 2003]

I admit, this movie isn't perfect.

The story is a bit corny, the acting isn't that brilliant etc. However... I can't say that this movie is the worst I've ever seen. Although some might say that the flashbacks are random, I liked the flashbacks the most. This movie is meant to close a trilogy.( eventhough part four was made later on, but nevermind that) It does this very well. It looks back to the first movie. the movie which all started it. They tried to let the viewer in on the struggle Conner is facing once more, having to face the one other immortal that's left on this planet.

My rate: 6, average, not brilliant.

Highlander 3 - The Namening

[emeraldreprobates · 3/10 · 3 June 2015]

If you are sitting down to watch Highlander 3, I will assume you have already watched at least one of the previous films and know what to expect.

If for some reason this is your first Highlander film then. Welcome, pull up a chair, grab some popcorn, a tasty beverage and prepare yourself for a poor film, poorly written, poorly acted and full of effects that are far from special.

The best part of the film is the guy who has been trapped in a cave for 400 years but has no problem living in the world of 1994. Make a list of the things he does in 90's New York with no problem despite being from 16th century Japan.

This film might have been good if it was trimmed down and turned into an episode of the Highlander TV show but then again, maybe not.

Featured on Episode 58 of The Emerald Reprobates Podcast