The new “Masters of the Universe” film delivers a vibrant, if uneven, cinematic experience, largely buoyed by its embrace of camp, impressive CGI, and a surprisingly overt queer sensibility. Camila Mendes, known for her role as Veronica Lodge in “Riverdale,” shines as Teela, bringing a much-needed grounded performance amidst the fantastical chaos. Her portrayal is a highlight, demonstrating both strength and vulnerability, and she effortlessly commands the screen, proving herself a formidable presence in the action-packed sequences.
The film leans heavily into its inherent campiness, a wise decision that allows it to revel in the absurdity of its source material, making any gay kid who found their awakening with He-Man an instant fan, whilst possibly putting off hetero normative fan boys with its innuendos.
This approach manifests in witty dialogue, exaggerated characterisations, and a playful self-awareness that prevents the narrative from taking itself too seriously. The humour, often delivered through subtle innuendo and knowing glances, frequently carries a distinctly queer undertone, adding layers of subtext that will undoubtedly resonate with a segment of its audience. This intentional embrace of LGBTQ+ friendly themes feels both organic and refreshing, moving beyond mere suggestion to more explicit, albeit still coded, references.
Visually, “Masters of the Universe” is a spectacle. The CGI is consistently fantastic, crafting a richly detailed and expansive Eternia that feels both alien and familiar. From the shimmering landscapes to the intricate creature designs and battle sequences, the visual effects team has created a world that is genuinely immersive. However, at times, the sheer volume of digital artistry can be overwhelming, leading to the sacrifice of practical effects in favour of a more polished yet less tangible aesthetic. Despite this, the overall impact is one of breathtaking scope and imaginative execution.
While the film occasionally struggles with pacing, its strengths ultimately prevail. The commitment to camp, the stunning visual effects, and the progressive inclusion of queer themes, coupled with a standout performance from the iconic Camila Mendes, make “Masters of the Universe” a memorable and enjoyable ride. It successfully reintroduces a beloved franchise to a new generation while offering enough depth and nuance to satisfy long-time fans, particularly those who appreciate its more flamboyant aspects; and YES, Adam’s (He-Man) muscle density is MORE than enough to be an incredible portrayal of this character, and his comedic timing is just sensational.
Rob is the founder of GTG. Launching the GTG-Sydney brand in 1995, it has gone from a VHS tourist guide for Sydney to a global phenomenon, partnering with Pride events and special events and charities all over the world, raising millions of dollars for the LGBTQIA+ communities and showcasing our big gay world to anyone who wants to join in the fun.
Rob is a trained marketer and journalist. An Emmy award winner, a NIDA-trained TV Presenter who has been on digital channels, cable and terrestrial broadcast television globally as a presenter, producer and creative.
He is currently editor-in-chief and producer of GTG and the co-host of The Unfashionably Late Podcast.