Highlander 2: Renegade Version

Theatrically released in 1991 as Highlander II: The Quickening, this sequel was later re-edited (adding 18 minutes) and re-christened as director Russell Mulcahy's “Renegade” version, which developed a small but loyal following (even prompting a spin-off TV series). Only fans of truly bad cinema will find any guilty pleasure in this chaotic follow-up to 1986's Highlander, in which Christopher Lambert reprises his role as Connor MacLeod—a member of the alien race known as "Immortals"—who was banished to Earth some 500 years ago. Set in the year 2024, the plot finds MacLeod—whose corporation created a shield to protect the Earth following the depletion of the ozone layer—fighting an evil cartel that has seized control of the shield. Virginia Madsen plays a scientist who assists MacLeod in his mission to destroy the baddies, while Sean Connery is back in his role from Highlander as the Scottish Immortal named Ramirez (?!), although by the time Connery starts engaging in dashing swordplay, you may wonder if he's wandered in from another movie altogether. Making its second standalone appearance on Blu-ray, with a decent transfer and no extras, this bona fide cinematic turkey is optional, at best. (J. Shannon)