The Highlander reboot finally has a script and Lionsgate is moving forward with the movie, as pre-production is set to begin in October. The project has been in development for nearly a decade, starting when Summit Entertainment picked up the rights to the project in 2008. Lionsgate has been in control of it for some time now, as the studio acquired Summit Entertainment in 2012. Now, after years in development hell, the studio has a script they're happy with. It looks like this movie is finally, actually happening.

According to a new report, the latest draft of the screenplay that satisfied the studio comes from Colony writer Ryan Condal. Quite a few writers have been attached to the project over the years, meaning there have been many drafts of this Highlander reboot. Prior to this draft from Condal, Ant-Man and the Wasp writers Andrew Barrer and Gabriel Ferrari were reportedly brought in to take a pass at it. It's unclear if Condal's draft is completely fresh, or if he reworked what Lionsgate already had. In any event, get ready for some actual movement on this Highlander movie in the near future. Patrick Wachsberger, Head of Lionsgate's Motion Picture Group, had this to say.

"We've finally got a screenplay we're happy with. We have set up the story so it has sequel potential."

Chad Stahelski (John Wick: Chapter 2) is still on board to direct the Highlander reboot. He was first attached to the project in 2016. Lionsgate is waiting for him to finish shooting John Wick 3 before getting to work on Highlander. With John WIck 3 set to shoot this summer, that will give Stahelski time to finish up there and head right into pre-production on Highlander in October. The remake will reportedly set up an all-new trilogy of films. Dave Bautista has expressed interest in playing the villain. And it was once reported that Tom Cruise was wanted for the Sean Connery role. Stahelski will be quite busy this year, as he's also scheduled to shoot the pilot for the John Wick TV series, The Continental.

The original Highlander was released in 1986. The movie follows a Scottish swordsman who must battle his immortal counterpart so that he may become the sole member of this immortal and legendary line of men. Highlander gained cult status over the years and spawned four live-action sequels, in addition to an animated movie. The most recent of these being 2007's Highlander: The Source. In addition to the movies, there have been novels, comic books and a short-lived animated series, in addition to the popular live-action Highlander TV series from the 90s.

Lionsgate has yet to set a release date for the Highlander reboot, but with the project entering pre-production in October, assuming everything goes according to plan, it's likely we'll see the movie arrive in theaters in 2019. There's also no word on casting just yet, but with the movie officially moving forward, we should be hearing some news on that front in the relatively near future as well. We'll be sure to keep you up to date as any new details on the project are made available. This news comes to us courtesy of Deadline.