Film: Masters of the Universe [2026] – Nicholas Galitzine, Camila Mendes, Idris Elba

Masters of The Universe is just the right kind of uncomplicated, goofy entertainment that knows its source material and doesn’t take itself seriously.

Starring Nicholas Galitzine, Camila Mendes, and Jared Leto, this film knows that its source material is goofy and campy and sticks to it while also making fun of it. However, it gets two things wrong. Casting Leto, and not taking it as far as they should.

Did you grow up in the 1990s? Then you definitely saw the morning cartoon of He-Man, or at least you’re familiar with it. Director Travis Knight had a tough task to introduce the goofiest universe to live action. Thankfully, he understood the mission and succeeds most of the time.

What I saw is a fantasy adventure based on an eighties toy line. It knows it. And, for the first time in a long time, it seems proud of it. From the character names (Fisto, headman, etc), to the 1980s music, to the campiness of Skeletor, it all works even when it feels too silly.

However, even though Leto is unrecognizable as Skeletor (thankfully), his choices are questionable. I’ve never seen the full original animated show, but Skeletor voice and mannerisms are ingrained in my brain. A diva villain who’s a villain just for the sake of it. And it’s barely translated here. You can see glimpses of it here and there, but Leto’s choices made a bratty Thanos out of a campy Skeletor.

Overall, what makes it all worth it is a stellar soundtrack, hilarious jokes, and Galitzine playing the sweetest, most caring version of He-Man fans have ever gotten.

Should You Watch It?

If you’re expecting another MCU or DCU, don’t. This is truly a live action version of the silliest franchise out there. Millennials will love it. GenZ will hate it.

Where Can I Watch It?

Masters of the Universe is now playing in theaters.