Review of Masters of the Universe (2026)

Directed by Travis Knight, Masters of the Universe brings Mattel’s iconic He-Man franchise back to the big screen with a modern live-action retelling of the battle between Prince Adam and Skeletor. 

The film stars Nicholas Galitzine as Adam/He-Man, Jared Leto as Skeletor, Camila Mendes as Teela, and Idris Elba as Duncan/Man-at-Arms.  

Brief Summary

The story follows Prince Adam, who was sent from the planet Eternia to Earth as a child to protect him from the evil Skeletor. Years later, Adam discovers the legendary Sword of Power and learns his true identity. 

Returning to Eternia, he finds his homeland suffering under Skeletor’s rule. With the help of Teela, Man-at-Arms, and other allies, Adam must embrace his destiny as He-Man and lead the fight to save his family and kingdom.  

Review

One of the film’s strengths is its emphasis on identity, courage, and responsibility. Unlike many modern fantasy films that focus primarily on spectacle, Masters of the Universe centers on Adam’s journey from uncertainty to conviction. His transformation into He-Man is not merely physical; it represents the acceptance of his calling and purpose.

Visually, Eternia is vibrant and imaginative, capturing much of the spirit that made the original franchise popular. The action sequences are energetic, and the performances of Galitzine and Mendes help ground the story’s larger-than-life mythology. Skeletor remains a memorable villain whose lust for power serves as a cautionary example of ambition without wisdom.  

Critics have been divided. Some praise the film for embracing the fun and adventure of the classic franchise, while others argue that the story occasionally struggles with pacing and tonal consistency. Nevertheless, the movie succeeds in delivering a classic tale of good versus evil and offers several themes that resonate beyond entertainment.  

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The film may not be perfect, but it provides an enjoyable adventure and presents several valuable lessons that can stimulate meaningful discussion in a Bible study setting.

Bible Study Life Lessons from Masters of the Universe

1. Embrace Your God-Given Calling

Adam spends much of his life unaware of who he truly is. His journey begins when he accepts his identity and purpose.

The Christian life likewise involves discovering and embracing God’s calling.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)

Discussion Question: What happens when believers ignore or delay responding to God’s calling?

2. True Strength Comes from Character, Not Power

He-Man possesses extraordinary physical power, yet the story repeatedly shows that courage, loyalty, and self-sacrifice matter more than strength alone.

Scripture teaches the same principle:

“But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature… For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.’” – 1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV)

Discussion Question: How does God define strength differently from the world?

3. Pride Leads to Destruction

Skeletor’s desire for absolute power drives the conflict. His pride blinds him to wisdom and ultimately becomes his downfall.

The Bible repeatedly warns against pride:

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” –  Proverbs 16:18 (ESV)

Discussion Question: What are modern examples of pride leading individuals away from God?

4. We Need Faithful Companions

Adam does not save Eternia alone. He relies on Teela, Man-at-Arms, and other loyal allies.

Likewise, Christians are called to live in fellowship and mutual support.

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together…” – Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV)

Discussion Question: Why is Christian community essential for spiritual growth?

5. Leadership Requires Sacrifice

Adam’s destiny demands personal sacrifice. He chooses responsibility over comfort and security.

Jesus taught that godly leadership is rooted in service:

“Whoever would be great among you must be your servant.” –  Mark 10:43 (ESV)

Discussion Question: How does servant leadership differ from worldly leadership?

6. Hope Can Survive Dark Times

Eternia appears lost under Skeletor’s oppression, yet hope remains because a deliverer returns to rescue the kingdom.

This theme echoes the Christian hope found in Christ.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” –  John 1:5 (ESV)

Discussion Question: How does the hope of Christ help believers endure difficult seasons?

Final Thoughts

While Masters of the Universe is fundamentally a fantasy adventure, its themes of identity, courage, responsibility, friendship, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil provide useful bridges for biblical discussion. 

The film’s central message—that a person must embrace their true calling and stand against evil despite overwhelming odds—parallels many biblical narratives, from Moses and David to the disciples and ultimately Jesus Christ.

For a Bible study class, the movie can serve as an engaging illustration of the difference between worldly power and godly character, reminding believers that true strength is found not in might, but in faithfully fulfilling God’s purpose.