Released in 1987, Masters of the Universe brought the popular He Man franchise to the big screen with a live action twist. It had a built in fan base from the toys and animated series, and expectations were high. What audiences got was something a little different. Not quite the epic fantasy many expected, but still an entertaining ride that has built a loyal following over the years.
The film was directed by Gary Goddard, making his feature film debut. Goddard leaned into the action and spectacle while working within the limits of the budget. Instead of spending the entire film in the fantasy world of Eternia, much of the story takes place on Earth, which gave the movie a very different feel compared to the source material.
Dolph Lundgren stars as He Man, and physically he looks the part. He brings the presence and strength you would expect from the character. While the role does not give him a ton of dialogue, Lundgren carries himself like a true action hero and fits the role well.
Frank Langella as Skeletor completely steals the show. His performance is theatrical, intense, and fully committed. Langella does not hold back at all, and it works. He turns Skeletor into a memorable and entertaining villain who dominates every scene he is in.
The supporting cast adds some interesting pieces to the film. Courteney Cox appears early in her career as Julie, one of the Earth characters who gets pulled into the story. Robert Duncan McNeill plays her boyfriend Kevin, bringing a lighter and more grounded presence.
Billy Barty appears as Gwildor, the small inventor responsible for the cosmic key that allows travel between worlds. His character replaces Orko from the original series and adds a bit of comic relief to the film.
The plot centers around Skeletor taking control of Eternia and attempting to gain ultimate power using the secrets of Castle Grayskull. He Man and his allies must stop him, leading to a battle that eventually shifts to Earth after the cosmic key falls into the wrong hands.
One of the biggest criticisms of the film is the limited use of the Eternia setting. Fans wanted more of that fantasy world, and instead got a story that spends a lot of time in small town America. It is a noticeable shift, but it also gives the movie a unique identity.
The action scenes are fun and very much a product of the eighties. Laser blasts, practical effects, and physical combat all come together to create an entertaining mix. It may not be polished by today’s standards, but it has a certain charm.
Visually, the film does a solid job with costume and set design, especially when it comes to Skeletor and his forces. The look of the villain and his surroundings stands out as one of the stronger elements.
What really keeps Masters of the Universe enjoyable is its energy. The movie knows it is a big, bold fantasy story and leans into that tone. It does not try to be subtle or overly serious.
Frank Langella’s performance alone is worth the watch. He brings a level of commitment that elevates the entire film and makes Skeletor one of the most memorable parts of the experience.
Masters of the Universe may not be a perfect adaptation, and it definitely has its flaws, but it remains a fun piece of eighties action fantasy. If you go in expecting a wild, slightly uneven, but entertaining ride, the movie absolutely delivers. It is a classic in its own unique way.