Masters of the Universe

The journey to a new live-action Masters of the Universe film is like a veritable odyssey through Hollywood. The first attempts to bring Mattel's iconic toy figures back to the big screen date back to 2007. Over the years, various studios such as Warner Bros. and Sony Pictures have been involved, and numerous directors have been traded, only to leave the project again. In the meantime, Netflix looked set to become the home for He-Man, planning a budget of 150 million dollars, but pulling the plug when costs threatened to break the 200 million mark. In the end, responsibility landed with Amazon MGM, who are now realizing the project together with Mattel Films.

The cast was the subject of much discussion. Nicholas Galitzine takes on the role of Prince Adam, who transforms into the muscular hero He-Man. He is joined by Camila Mendes as Teela, while superstar Idris Elba plays her adoptive father Duncan, better known as Man-At-Arms. Probably one of the most talked-about decisions is the casting of the villain: Oscar-winner Jared Leto breathes life into Skeletor.

In terms of content, the makers, directed by Travis Knight, dare to take a new approach that differs from the classic lore. The film tells the story of how ten-year-old Adam crashes his spaceship on Earth and is separated from his magical sword. Only years later does his search lead him back to his home planet of Eternia, which he must defend against Skeletor's dark forces. This relocation of the beginning to Earth reminds some fans of the first live-action film from 1987, which sent He-Man to New Jersey for budget reasons, which is viewed critically in the community.

The production, which took place in London and elsewhere, was accompanied by numerous leaks. The reactions from fans were mixed: While the inclusion of many classic supporting characters raised hopes, changes to the background story and certain casting decisions were met with skepticism.