Masters of the Universe: Nostalgia, Action, and Family Relationships
More than the action, the movie is about the relationship of fathers and their children
After much anticipation, Masters of the Universe finally arrives in Philippine cinemas on June 3, ahead of its worldwide release on June 5. Starring Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Adam/He-Man, the live-action adaptation brings the beloved 1980s franchise to a new generation while giving longtime fans a chance to revisit the world they grew up with.
For many parents who once watched He-Man and the Masters of the Universe or played with the iconic action figures, the film delivers a welcome dose of nostalgia. But beneath the battles, magic, and larger-than-life heroes lies something more grounded: a story about fathers and children, expectations, and the desire to be seen and understood.
A Son’s Longing for His Father’s Approval
Early in the film, viewers meet a young Adam training under Duncan, better known as Man-At-Arms. During one session, King Randor visits and catches Adam joking around with his childhood friend Teela instead of taking his lessons seriously.
Disappointed, Randor challenges his son to a duel. Adam eagerly accepts but is quickly defeated. As he struggles with the loss, Duncan reminds him not to show his disappointment if his father turns around.
Randor never does.
It’s a brief scene, but one that sets the tone for Adam’s journey. Like many children, he longs for recognition from a parent he deeply admires.
After Eternia falls to Skeletor, Adam finds himself separated from his family and transported to Earth. Fifteen years pass before he returns home, armed with the Power Sword and the responsibility of becoming He-Man.
His mission is to save Eternia, but beneath the heroic quest is a deeply personal one: reconnecting with his family.
When Adam and Randor finally reunite, the moment is heartbreakingly brief. As chaos unfolds around them, Randor is fatally injured in Snake Mountain. Before losing him, Adam confesses something he has carried for years—he always wanted his father to be proud of him.
Randor’s response is one that many children long to hear. He tells Adam that he has always been proud of him—not because he became He-Man, but simply because of who he is.
It’s a reminder that while parents may not always express their feelings openly, their love often runs deeper than their children realize.
Photos from Columbia Pictures
The Hero in a Daughter’s Eyes
The film also explores fatherhood through the relationship between Duncan and Teela.
Following Eternia’s fall, Duncan survives alongside Teela and a small group of refugees. But the years have not been kind to him. Once a respected warrior, he has become withdrawn and burdened by regret.
His relationship with Teela is noticeably strained.
As the story unfolds, viewers learn that the tension stems not from a lack of love but from years of disappointment, misunderstandings, and the weight of a broken world.
Despite their conflicts, Teela never fully gives up on her father. One telling moment reveals that she secretly preserved Duncan’s armor—a symbol of the hero she always believed he could still be.
Later, while imprisoned in Snake Mountain, Duncan opens up to Adam about his fears and regrets. Unlike Adam, who seeks validation from his father, Duncan worries that he has failed to live up to the image his daughter once had of him.
He wants Teela to see that the father and hero she admired is still there.
Photos from Columbia Pictures
When the opportunity comes, Duncan proves himself once again, helping Adam, Teela, and their allies continue their mission while he confronts Trap Jaw in a final act of courage.
His story reflects a reality many parents understand: relationships with children are not always smooth. There are seasons of distance, mistakes, and difficult conversations. But love remains, even during the hardest moments.
Is Masters of the Universe Worth Watching?
For fans of the original animated series and the 1987 film starring Dolph Lundgren, Masters of the Universe offers plenty to enjoy. The movie balances action, humor, and heartfelt character moments while staying true to the spirit of the franchise.
What makes it stand out, however, is its emotional core. Beyond the spectacle, it explores themes of family, identity, and the complicated but enduring bond between parents and their children.
Whether you’re introducing He-Man to your kids for the first time or revisiting a childhood favorite, the film offers something for both generations.
And be sure to stay through the end credits. The final tease is likely to leave longtime fans excited about what could be next for Eternia.
Photo from Columbia Pictures
Frequently Asked Questions
Masters of the Universe follows Prince Adam as he returns to Eternia to battle Skeletor and reclaim the Power Sword. Alongside its fantasy adventure, the film explores themes of family, identity, and the relationships between parents and their children.
The film stars Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Adam, also known as He-Man. Other cast members include Camila Mendes, Idris Elba, and Jared Leto.
Masters of the Universe opens in Philippine cinemas on June 3, ahead of its worldwide release on June 5.
The film examines parental expectations, communication between parents and children, forgiveness, and the importance of expressing love and pride. These themes are reflected in the relationships between Adam and King Randor, as well as Teela and Man-At-Arms.
Adam’s journey is driven not only by his desire to save Eternia but also by his longing for his father’s approval. Their story highlights how meaningful words of affirmation can be for children, even as they grow older.
Through Teela and Man-at-Arms, the movie explores the ups and downs of a father-daughter relationship, showing how love can endure despite disagreements, distance, and personal struggles.
Yes. The film combines nostalgic elements with a fresh story, offering familiar characters, action-packed sequences, and emotional moments that honor the franchise’s legacy.
Yes. Fans should stay through the end credits, as the film includes a tease that hints at the future of the franchise.
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