Highlander.
The 1986 fantasy film that famously carried the tagline “There can only be one” is Highlander. Directed by Russell Mulcahy, Highlander is a unique blend of fantasy, action, and historical drama that has since become a cult classic. The film stars Christopher Lambert as Connor MacLeod, a Scottish warrior from the 16th century who discovers he is one of a rare group of immortals who can only be killed by beheading. These immortals are locked in a centuries-long battle known as “The Game,” where they must fight one another until only one remains to claim “The Prize”, a powerful reward granting ultimate knowledge and mortality.
A key element that makes Highlander memorable is its antagonist, The Kurgan, played by Clancy Brown. The Kurgan is a ruthless, brutal warrior who seeks to eliminate all other immortals to become the last one standing. Throughout history, MacLeod and The Kurgan cross paths, leading to an inevitable final showdown in modern-day New York City.
Another standout feature of Highlander is its soundtrack, provided by the legendary rock band Queen. Songs like Who Wants to Live Forever and Princes of the Universe enhance the film’s dramatic and mythical tone. Additionally, Sean Connery plays MacLeod’s mentor, Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez, providing wisdom and training to help MacLeod understand his destiny.
Though the film initially received mixed reviews upon release, it has since become a beloved cult hit, spawning sequels, a popular television series, and various spin-offs. Its tagline, “There can only be one”, remains one of the most recognizable phrases in film history, symbolizing the immortal struggle that defines the Highlander franchise.
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