If you're expecting the big bash 'em up, lots of action, superhero kinda flick, you're not going to like this one at all.
But! If you're looking for a big bash 'em up, lots of action, superhero kinda flick that makes fun of itself, gives you the giggles, and makes you long for the days of old when such things were pretty cut and dried and good guys were really good and villains weren't morally ambivalent characters but were truly evil...? Oh baby, have I got a movie for you!!
Yes, I was, and still am, a huge fan of the original with Dolph Lundgren as He-Man. I loved the campy, hokeyness of that film. Great cast, so much action and adventure, and characters to root for. What's not to love? And the idea of doing a remake in an industry that's forgotten how make original stories? Sacrilege.
But if the truth be told, Nicholas Galitzine makes one fine successor to Dolph Lundren's loin cloth. As origin movies go, this one has a lot going for it.
So, yeah, the character of Prince Adam is woke. He's a bit of a stereotypical nerd. The kind you feel sorry for. The kind that makes the bullies wanna slap him around. Which, of course, is always a stupid mistake. But Prince Adam finds his sword, finds his bestie from childhood, and the He-man is awakened. Trust me; he has the power! And I found myself on the edge of my seat, rooting for the good guy to kick some Skeletor ass!
I thought the writing was great with a tight script that wasn't afraid to show its silly side for a deceptive moment before all hell breaks loose. Especially when it's about to get down and dirty, heavy as hell. The acting was also great -- everyone playing it serious, everyone having fun with the characters. Galitzine has proven himself to be a damn fine comedic actor as well as a damn fine dramatic one. Mary & George showed off those dramatic chops being honed to a fine edge. Not to mention Red White & Royal Blue and The Idea of You showing off some Rom-Com muscle too. I adore that man.
But then again, Having Idris Elba and, yes, that's Jared Leto as Skeletor. I think I like Frank Langella better, but Jared did a great nasty, evil job. Not to mention a cameo by the original, Dolph Lundgren, at the beginning. Passing the torch!
And will there be a She-Ra movie in the offing? That credit teaser scene seems to indicate. As long as He-Man is there. ;-)
So, yeah. The movie failed in the theater, but Amazon announced that streaming the movie has it at #1 after two days. I love it. And I plan on a couple more watches.
And I'm giving it 5 out of 5 stars. A must watch and a damn fine time.
Masters of the Universe is available on Amazon Prime
