Are you counting down to the release of the highly anticipated "Masters of the Universe" movie? Before you dive into the explosive action and epic fantasy of Eternia, why not catch up on some films and shows that will give you a solid foundation in the world of He-Man and the classic cartoon series? Here are some titles to watch that will help you truly appreciate the upcoming movie.
From classic cartoons to live-action adaptations, these productions will not only entertain you but also deepen your understanding and excitement for the upcoming film. So, grab your Netflix subscription and let's get started.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (Original Animated Series)
The classic 1980s animated series, "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe," is a must-watch before the movie. This fun and action-packed show introduced us to the heroics of Prince Adam and the evil threats he faced on Eternia. While the upcoming film promises a rebooted story with a more mature tone, revisiting the original series will help you appreciate the evolution of the franchise.
As a bonus, watching the animated series might help you understand and appreciate the Carter retreat and the origins of Skeletor's evil. Plus, it's just a great classic '80s cartoon that you can enjoy with the whole family.
Season 1 & 2 (1983-1984)
The first two seasons of the classic series are essential viewing. These episodes introduce the core cast of characters, establish the power of Castle Grayskull, and set the stage for the ongoing battle between He-Man and Skeletor. Don't miss classics like "The Diamond Ray of destruction" and "Curse of the spellslingers."
From a storytelling perspective, these seasons lay the groundwork for the themes and conflicts explored in the "Masters of the Universe" movie. Watching these episodes will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation for the upcoming film.
The Filmation Movie (1987)
Based on the hit animated series, "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" (1987) took the action to the big screen. This animated feature follows Prince Adam and his friends on an exciting quest to prevent Skeletor from taking over Eternia. While it's an older film, it's still a great watch for fans of the original series and a nostalgia trip for those who grew up with the '80s cartoons.
Before the live-action "Masters of the Universe" movie, it's worth revisiting this animated feature for its epic storytelling and classic '80s animation style. You might even spot some plot points or character development that might echo in the upcoming reboot.
Live-Action Adaptations & Franchise Expansion
The "Masters of the Universe" franchise has seen several live-action adaptations, ranging from entertaining to, well, questionable. While these films might not be the best examples of cinematic quality, they're an essential part of the franchise's history and can provide valuable context for the upcoming movie.
So, grab your popcorn and prepare for a entertaining, if not totally serious, journey through the live-action iterations of He-Man and his fellow Eternians.
Masters of the Universe (1987)
The 1987 live-action "Masters of the Universe" film is a cult classic that's worth a watch, if only for the sheer lunacy of it all. Starring Dolph Lundgren as He-Man and Frank Langella as Skeletor, this movie takes the original cartoon's storyline and gives it a more adult spin – with mixed results. While it's not the best adaptation, it's still an entertaining watch that's sure to bring back some '80s nostalgia.
From weird plot decisions to bizarre fashion, this film is a unique and often hilarious take on the He-Man story. Watching this movie will give you a better idea of the franchise's mold-breaking potential, and it might even inspire some laughs as you wait for the "Masters of the Universe" movie.
Masters of the Universe (2021)
Originally planned to be a direct sequel to the 1987 film, the upcoming "Masters of the Universe" reboot is set to hit theaters with a fresh take on the classic story. Starring Kellan Lutz as He-Man and Travis Fimmel as his legendary nemesis, Skeletor, this film promises to bring the epic action and fantasy of Eternia to life like never before.
While full details on the movie are still under wraps, watching the previous live-action adaptations will give you a better understanding of where this new film fits into the franchise's history. Plus, you never know – there might be some Easter eggs or shout-outs to the older movies that you'll only catch if you've seen them!
With these awesome movies and shows under your belt, you'll be well-prepared to dive into the exciting world of "Masters of the Universe" and eager to see how the upcoming film brings this classic story to life. So, mark your calendars, and get ready for an action-packed adventure on the big screen!