Masters of the Universe
Can He-Man still conquer the cinema in this modern era?
2 Jun 2026 
Russ Matthews The 1980s gave rise to countless toy lines and animated series that would struggle to find their place in today’s culturally sensitive and politically charged landscape. Few examples illustrate this better than Mattel’s He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. Yet this muscle-bound, loincloth-wearing, blond imitation of Conan the Barbarian is once again being introduced to a new generation.
In this origin story, Prince Adam (Nicholas Galitzine) and the Sword of Power are sent to Earth to escape the invasion of Eternia by the warlord Skeletor (Jared Leto). After 15 years of searching for the sword, Adam finally discovers the means to reconnect with his home world. Unfortunately, growing up on Earth has left him far removed from the warrior he was destined to become. Teela (Camila Mendes) and Man-At-Arms, also known as Duncan (Idris Elba), must help train and prepare the reluctant prince to embrace his destiny and fight to save Eternia from destruction.
The only viable way to introduce this unlikely hero into the modern era is to embrace a healthy level of self-awareness. With the campy spirit of Flash Gordon (1980) and a tongue-in-cheek approach reminiscent of Guardians of the Galaxy, the film often pokes fun at itself while acknowledging its colourful legacy. Director Travis Knight (Bumblebee) understands the challenge before him, walking a fine line between action and comedy in an attempt to satisfy both nostalgic fans and younger audiences who may view characters such as Fisto (Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson) and Ram-Man (Jon Xue Zhang) through a very different cultural lens.
Unfortunately, the result is a story that struggles to decide what it wants to be. At times, the screenplay leans heavily into parody, inviting audiences to laugh at the absurdity of the premise. At other moments, it attempts to establish a sincere fantasy adventure centred on the timeless battle between good and evil. Rather than complementing one another, these competing tones often clash, creating a sense of genre whiplash. The effort to appeal to multiple audiences leaves the film caught between nostalgia and reinvention, never fully committing to either. While many will associate He-Man and Masters of the Universe with childhood memories and toy-store nostalgia, parents should note that this adaptation is not intended for younger viewers. The frequent innuendo and intense violence push the film firmly into territory better suited to teenagers and adults.
Masters of the Universe clearly wants to acknowledge changing cultural attitudes, but in doing so it sometimes loses sight of what made the character resonate in the first place. There are enjoyable moments throughout, the cast appears fully committed to the material, and the action sequences are solid enough to keep audiences engaged. Yet He-Man himself seems trapped in an identity crisis, making it difficult to understand exactly what he is meant to represent in this collision of worlds, generations and cultural expectations.
Reel Dialogue: Who is the true hero of this world?
At its heart, Masters of the Universe follows a young man wrestling with his birthright. Prince Adam is heir to the throne, but before he can fulfil that role, he must first discover who he truly is.
The Bible contains many kings, from Saul to David to Solomon, yet none carried the title “King of Kings.” That designation belongs solely to the Messiah and is one of the names given to Jesus. Unlike Prince Adam, Jesus fully understood both his identity and the role he would play at the centre of human history.
An even deeper truth emerges in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans, where followers of Christ are described as co-heirs with him:
“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” – Romans 8:17
This passage raises two significant questions. First, if Jesus truly is King and Lord of your life, what does that mean for you personally? Second, have you considered that being part of God’s family makes you a co-heir in his Kingdom?
It is a remarkable privilege to contemplate. While stories like Masters of the Universe centre on magical swords and royal destinies, the inheritance offered through Christ is far greater than anything found in a fantasy adventure. It is an invitation into a Kingdom that lasts forever.
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