Masters of the Universe cast and director talk bringing He-Man back to the big screen

The 1980s are back in a big way this weekend, with one of the era’s most beloved cartoons finally getting the big-budget movie adaptation fans have been waiting decades to see. Masters of the Universe arrives in theaters as a colorful, action-packed fantasy epic that brings He-Man and the world of Eternia to life on a scale that simply wasn’t possible before.

While many fans still have a soft spot for the 1987 Cannon Films version starring Dolph Lundgren, that film was limited by its modest budget and the filmmaking technology of the time. This new adaptation embraces the full scope of the franchise, delivering the kind of spectacle longtime fans have always imagined. From massive battles to elaborate fantasy landscapes, it captures the spirit of the classic Filmation cartoon while updating it for modern audiences.

A few weeks ago, JoBlo’s own Ryan Cultrera attended the film’s press junket in Los Angeles, where he had the opportunity to sit down with the cast and filmmakers behind the highly anticipated reboot. Leading the charge is Nicholas Galitzine, who is best known for romantic hits such as Purple Hearts and The Idea of You. For Masters of the Universe, Galitzine underwent a remarkable physical transformation to become Prince Adam/He-Man, marking his first major action-hero role.

Camila Mendes, who rose to fame on Riverdale, also makes a strong impression as the fierce warrior Teela. She emerges as one of the film’s standout characters, sharing the spotlight with He-Man as they battle the sinister Lord Skeletor. Skeletor is played by Jared Leto, who clearly relishes the role and brings plenty of energy and humor to the iconic villain.

Ryan also spoke with director Travis Knight, whose previous credits include Kubo and the Two Strings and Bumblebee. In our review, we praised Knight as the perfect filmmaker to bring Filmation’s classic fantasy universe to the big screen. Check out our interviews embedded above, and catch Masters of the Universe in theaters this weekend!

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