Many have tried. All have failed. One attempt made it to the big screen, and we know how that turned out. After numerous other aborted attempts, a new live-action Masters Of The Universe movie is actually going to make it to release.
The question is… is it any good?
As we often discuss here whenever this movie is mentioned, it will be all in the tone. Masters Of The Universe is basically as camp as a row of pink tents on Super-Mince Day at a Pride festival, and yet has to be played with a completely straight face, and wear its heart on its sleeve. It’s actually very challenging to get right.
Well…
This new Masters Of The Universe movie had a test screening, and the reports are good. If you believe test screening leaks, then this could be a contender next year.
Several outlets are reporting from inside this test screening, including Mr. H Reviews on YouTube (via Geek League Of America), and others. The themes are remarkably consistent.
The movie was reported to be more finished than many expected, with solid FX work on display where they are clearly getting close. Tone-wise, it leans heavily into the comedy and goes all out to be entertaining, but does it with, as one outlet says, “plenty of heart”. That doesn’t mean it is a comedy, though. The reports say it is action-heavy with really strong sword choreography.
The character and vehicle designs are very faithful to the toys from the 1980s, including the individual weapons.
The big news is that Jared Leto apparently understood the assignment and is said to have put in a performance that knows exactly where it is supposed to be as Skeletor. The reports talk of him channeling Tim Curry in a cross between Frank N Furter from Rocky Horror and Darkness from Legend. The face is revealed as being mostly CGI, and “really good”.
The movie is said to feature a ton of Easter eggs for 80s kids and fans of the cartoons and toys. The audience was very positive and receptive, with the movie having “got a vibe going” and winning the audience over to be on its side. Atmosphere has been likened to Infinity War in theaters, and:
“Pretty much everyone at the screening liked it. It [has the] potential to be a massive hit. The crowd seemed to love it.”
Well, this sounds absolutely brilliant… so, of course, our inner cynic now kicks in as we remember The Flash and we recall the pain of burnt fingers.
Still, the festive season is a time for miracles, so maybe we can have a little ray of hope?
Masters Of The Universe is out on 5th June next year in theaters.
