Movie Review: Masters of the Universe (2026)
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5)
Bringing Masters of the Universe into live-action has notoriously been one of Hollywood’s most challenging uphill battles, plagued by years of studio delays and creative restarts. Yet, director Travis Knight has pulled off a minor miracle. The film beautifully bridges the epic “sword and planet” fantasy of Eternia with a massive dose of self-aware, 1980s-flavored fun. Rather than apologizing for its toy-line origins or trying to disguise it as an overly serious, gritty fantasy clone, the movie completely embraces its roots. The result is a big, bright, unapologetic blockbuster adventure that plays like a glorious love letter to the generation that grew up screaming, “I have the power!”
One of the most immediate triumphs of the film is its vibrant visual direction. Travis Knight wisely rejects the washed-out, dreary look that plagues so many modern blockbusters. Eternia is a glorious, neon-hued explosion of color where magic and retro sci-fi collide. The production and costume design teams deserve a massive amount of credit. The characters look like six-foot-five action figures brought to life, but with a tactile, heavy-metal weight to them. While the entire heroic and evil roster looks fantastic, the cyborg henchman Trap Jaw is an absolute standout—brought to life with a menace and practical-feeling detail that perfectly honors his animated roots.
The script beautifully honors the classic 80s “chosen one” fantasy archetype while giving it a fresh, modern energy. Nicholas Galitzine carries the weight of the Power Sword effortlessly, showing a refreshing lack of ego in his performance. He expertly balances the earnest, well-meaning heart of Prince Adam with the sheer, muscle-bound physical bravado required for He-Man. The film relies heavily on Galitzine’s sharp comic timing, finding great humor in his fish-out-of-water interactions with the giant, seasoned warriors of Eternia. The movie also pushes the boundaries of its PG-13 rating with a parade of sly, witty double entendres layered discreetly into the script—providing plenty of clever gags that will have adults giggling right over the heads of younger viewers.
The absolute crown jewel of the entire production is Jared Leto as Skeletor. Leto, who has spent much of his recent career playing brooding antiheroes, seems to be having the absolute time of his life. Cackling through a proudly theatrical, wildly unhinged performance, he gives the skull-faced icon a delightfully weird, cartoonish, and magnetic energy. Instead of a generic, deep-baritone warlord voice, Leto opts for a bizarre, conversational cadence—almost sounding like an eccentric social climber putting on a shaky accent—which only adds to his unpredictable comic menace. He is a true, unrepentant archvillain who clearly loves being bad, delivering over-the-top dialogue with a wicked sense of glee.
Skeletor may steal the spotlight, but the supporting cast holds their own against his chaotic fury. Camila Mendes delivers a fierce, commanding, and physically formidable performance as Teela, anchoring the battlefield choreography with absolute precision. Idris Elba brings massive gravitas to a rugged, battle-hardened Man-at-Arms, providing the film with its much-needed emotional anchor. Meanwhile, Alison Brie shines as Evil-Lyn. Rather than playing the traditional straight-faced villain, Brie embraces the script’s campy humor, bouncing off Leto’s unhinged energy with a perfect mix of wicked glee and sharp comedic timing.
Masters of the Universe is an absolute blast. It manages to modernize a 45-year-old franchise for a new generation without stripping away its retro soul. The fan service is thick—complete with a fun Dolph Lundgren cameo and a thrilling mid-credits tease that sets up the future of the universe—but it always feels earned. Come for the spectacular fantasy action, but stay for Jared Leto’s unforgettable, delightfully wicked spin on a classic villain. To quote the franchise itself: it’s a wonderfully “good journey.”
Masters of the Universe is now playing exclusively in theaters nationwide. Check local listings for showtimes and ticket information.
Cast
- Nicholas Galitzine as Adam Glenn / He-Man
- Camila Mendes as Teela
- Jared Leto as Skeletor
- Idris Elba as Man-at-Arms
- Alison Brie as Evil-Lyn
- Morena Baccarin as The Sorceress
- Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson as Malcolm / Fisto
