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Masters of the Universe (2026)


Masters of the Universe is directed by Travis Knight, known for Kubo and the Two Strings and Bumblebee, and while the film is competently made, it often struggles with execution. The action sequences look impressive on the surface, but many of the larger one vs. many fights suffer from a common problem where enemies appear to stand around waiting their turn to attack. The script, written by Aaron Nee and Adam Nee, known for The Lost City, takes the story in a direction that feels at odds with what many audiences might expect from a Masters of the Universe adaptation. Rather than embracing the larger than life heroic fantasy at the center of the franchise, the film spends much of its time deconstructing its protagonist in ways that don't always serve the story.

Nicholas Galitzine, known for The Idea of You and Red, White & Royal Blue, plays He-Man and does what he can with the material. The character is written in a way that often undermines the masculinity associated with the role, but Galitzine remains likable and charismatic throughout. The shortcomings of the character stem more from the script than from the performance itself.

Camila Mendes, known for Riverdale and Do Revenge, plays Teela and is given a prominent role in the story. She performs the part well enough, though the character is written with such certainty and competence that she rarely feels challenged by the events around her. As a result, some of the relationship dynamics feel less natural than they should.

Idris Elba, known for The Beast of No Nation and Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, feels surprisingly restrained here. Elba is usually able to elevate weaker material through sheer presence, but this role gives him little opportunity to showcase the charisma and energy that make him such a compelling performer. The result is one of the more annoying performances in the film.

The real highlights come from the villains. Jared Leto, known for Blade Runner 2049 and Dallas Buyers Club, fully commits to Skeletor's theatrical nature and brings a welcome sense of fun whenever he appears. Alison Brie, known for GLOW and Community, is equally entertaining as Evil-Lyn, delivering a performance that balances ambition, menace, and charisma. It is somewhat surprising that the antagonists emerge as the most compelling characters in the movie, and they consistently inject life into scenes that otherwise feel flat.

Overall, Masters of the Universe is a film with solid production values and a handful of entertaining performances, but it struggles with CGI and to capture the spirit that many fans associate with the franchise. The villains frequently outshine the heroes, the action is inconsistent, and the story often feels more interested in modern commentary than embracing the fantasy adventure at its core. Masters of the Universe is watchable, but it never becomes the epic adaptation it could have been. Result: C

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