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Masters of the Universe Nears Release With Praise for Galitzine and Commercial Doubts

Early reviews single out Nicholas Galitzine even as presales and box‑office trackers forecast a modest U.S. opening that may strain a reported $170 million production cost.

Overview

  • The film, directed by Travis Knight and starring Nicholas Galitzine and Jared Leto, opens in theaters Friday, June 5.
  • Critics generally praise Galitzine’s earnest turn as Prince Adam/He‑Man while many reviews call the film’s campy, tongue‑in‑cheek tone uneven and flag Jared Leto’s Skeletor as divisive.
  • Reviewers consistently note high production values, practical effects blended with VFX, a rousing Daniel Pemberton score, a Dolph Lundgren cameo, and multiple post‑credit scenes that set up potential follow‑ups.
  • Industry trackers and presale data published Tuesday point to a modest North American opening in the roughly $27 million to $45 million range, a gap that raises questions about recouping the reported $170 million production cost without strong international performance and heavy merchandising revenue.
  • The release continues Mattel’s post‑Barbie push to turn toy IP into live‑action tentpoles and follows decades of failed He‑Man attempts, meaning opening week, audience holds and licensed product sales will shape whether this becomes a lasting franchise.