In the 1980s, the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, based on Mattel’s toy line, premiered. Though it ran just two seasons, each had 65 episodes. It spawned the feature-length animated film He-Man and She-Ra: The Secret of the Sword and a 1987 live-action movie starring Dolph Lundgren. While the ‘80s have passed, franchises like He-Man still attract nostalgic attention today.
Now, in 2026, a new Masters of the Universe movie arrives, and I’m happy to report that it is quite good! The story opens with a voice-over by Adam (Nicholas Galitzine), who describes his childhood in Eternia to a confused date. She doubts his story, but Adam’s only goal is to find the sword of power and return home.
15 years prior, Skeletor (Jared Leto) and his army attacked Eternia, and in an attempt to save him, the Sorceress (Morena Baccarin) sent him to the homeworld of his mother, Queen Marlena (Charlotte Riley). This is how Adam ends up on Earth, and his quest for the sword and the ability to return home hasn’t been fruitful thus far. Searching for the sword is consuming many aspects of Adam’s life, including his job (in a hilarious fashion). When Adam finally finds the sword, all hell breaks loose, but at least he has the means to return to Eternia.
Directed by Travis Knight, Master of the Universe doesn’t shy away from the campiness of the classic animated series. It embraces it in the best possible ways, making for a humorous, action-packed romp that’s all the better with its lively cast.
Nicholas Galitzine is fantastic in the role of Adam. Whether being unsure of himself or “weird,” as some others like to label him or harnessing the full power of He-Man, Galitzine nails it. Alongside Galitzine are Idris Elba as Duncan/Man-at-Arms and Camila Mendes as Teela, who make a forceful pair. Their chemistry together is great, making for some of the film’s best moments. The trio are the emotional core of the film, so their strong performances were necessary for maximum emotional impact, and boy, they certainly delivered. Without them, I don’t think we’d have a movie this good.
However, stealing the show is Leto as Skeletor (I know, it distresses me to say this too). While he doesn’t have the higher-pitched voice that those accustomed to the OG cartoon would recognize, he has the same sass and energy Skeletor needs. From the quick quips and pointed barbs, Skeletor’s many moments are well worth seeing. Not only is the comedic element pulled off, but the villain’s menacing nature also lands well. Of course, wherever Skeletor is, Evil-Lyn is never far behind. Alison Brie’s Evil-Lyn is funny in her own right. I just wish the movie had given her more to do.
The visual effects throughout the film are exceptionally well done, especially in Eternia. It’s bright and colourful, reminiscent of some of the Masters of the Universe animated shows. It’s been a while since I’ve seen an introduction to a new world so vibrant. And yes, Cringer looked great, both as a cub and as a full-grown tiger (or battle cat). Not only are the effects great, but the music is too. Daniel Pemberton’s score absolutely rocks with its ‘80s-inspired elements. This year alone, Pemberton’s done the music for The Drama, Project Hail Mary, and now, Masters of the Universe. Pemberton continues to show that he’s a force to be reckoned with as a composer. The music plays a phenomenal part in the action, with scenes aplenty. My personal favourite sequence had to be the third act, where He-Man is beating the brakes off Skeletor.
Perhaps the best part of Masters of the Universe is how it explores what it means to be a strong man. Sure, you can have all the brawn in the world, but does that truly mean anything if there isn’t any heart or feelings behind it? The film examines this, and sure, while some of it may come across as very surface-level, it still makes its point and is impactful. Going into the movie, I wasn’t expecting it, so it was nice to have this addition.
Ultimately, Masters of the Universe is one of the funnest films of the year (thus far) for me. Combining nostalgia and modern elements, the movie soars and surprises in the best ways. Even if you’re not a fan of He-Man, there is still something for everyone to enjoy throughout the film. If you want action, comedy, and a meaningful message, but most importantly, to have fun, then Masters of the Universe is the movie for you. Whether you grew up on the originals or are just discovering this world, this film invites you to join in on the adventure—and leaves you excited for whatever might come next.
Muses of Media 
Leave a comment