Episode 55: Masters of the Universe (1987)

This week on The 3 Retro Movie Geeks, we have the power! With Paul and Scott away once again, Rob is joined by returning guests Marc Parslow and Mark Bearling to take a trip to Eternia and revisit the cult fantasy adventure Masters of the Universe. Starring Dolph Lundgren as He-Man and Frank Langella as the scene-stealing Skeletor, this live-action adaptation of the beloved toy line and cartoon series has become one of the most fascinating cult movies of the 1980s. Was it a faithful adaptation of the source material? Not exactly. Is it endlessly entertaining? Absolutely. The team discuss everything from the film’s ambitious production and memorable special effects to its surprisingly dark tone and unforgettable performances. We also look at how the movie differs from the animated series, why Frank Langella gave one of the greatest villain performances of the decade, and whether Masters of the Universe deserves a modern reappraisal. Expect plenty of nostalgia, laughs, behind-the-scenes trivia, and a healthy debate about where this movie ranks among the great fantasy adventures of the 80s. So grab your Power Sword, open a cosmic key, and join us for a journey to Eternia!