Are They Really the Masters of the Universe?

Masters of the Universe is tremendous fun, and I enjoyed it far more than I expected to. I think it strikes the perfect balance between a modern story and 1980s nostalgia. It blends comedy with some truly breathtaking action sequences.

Travis Knight delivers a nostalgic adventure that balances classic He-Man charm with modern blockbuster spectacle.

That said, it isn’t perfect. I feel the film tries a little too hard to force certain messages upon the audience while, at the same time, doing the opposite of what it claims to stand for. I also found some of the dialogue rather clunky. I understand they were trying to preserve that 1980s charm, but it doesn’t always work. Some of the visual effects also feel cheap and can pull you completely out of the immersive experience.

I don’t have a nostalgic connection to the He-Man lore, but I appreciate the way the film embraces its roots. Many people in my cinema applauded and cheered, and honestly, that’s what nostalgia should be about. Everything this film gets right is done in a way that made me appreciate it even more.

I’ll probably receive some criticism for this, but I absolutely loved Jared Leto as Skeletor. He is the best part of the film. Nicholas Galitzine is fantastic as Adam Glenn and He-Man, bringing a strong sense of duality to the role. I also think Idris Elba and Camila Mendes are excellent in their respective performances.

New world

For the most part, the film looks incredible. The world of Eternia is stunning on the big screen, and I think the character designs are exceptional. The costumes look as though they have stepped straight out of the original cartoon, while the visual effects in the larger set pieces are impressive. There were, however, moments where the green screen became noticeable.

Another aspect I absolutely loved was the soundtrack and score. The filmmakers really leaned into the 1980s atmosphere, and even the original music feels as though it belongs to that decade. One thing that remains clear throughout the entire film is director Travis Knight’s love for Masters of the Universe and its characters. He has managed to make them feel exactly as they did in the original series.

Masters of the Universe may not be the biggest film of the year, but it is certainly an enjoyable one. There are quite a few elements that didn’t work for me, although others may well enjoy those same aspects. I think He-Man fans will be divided, but I suspect most of them will come away satisfied.

I’m comfortable recommending this film, particularly if you’re looking for pure entertainment. I give He-Man and the Masters of the Universe 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Scared yet?

Currently showing in cinemas is Scary Movie 6. If you enjoy the Wayans brothers’ style of comedy, you’ll probably have a great time with it. Otherwise, you may be better off waiting until it arrives on streaming services or television.

Also released today is one of my most anticipated films of the year, Disclosure Day, directed by Steven Spielberg. It’s a film I thoroughly enjoyed. Head over to Instagram to read my full review and find out exactly what you can expect.