Masters of the Universe free on Prime video despite still being in cinema | Films | Entertainment

A new action film praised by viewers as “wonderful” and “nostalgic” is now streaming on Prime Video. Masters of the Universe was released in UK cinemas on June 5 and is still being shown in select cinemas, despite its recent streaming debut (July 22). The film was considered a box-office disappointment after earning just over $110million worldwide (around £82million), as reported by Digital Spy.

The entertainment site suggested that had the film performed “strongly” at the box office, its streaming debut might have been delayed. Despite its disappointing theatrical run, the film has earned a respectable 86% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, giving new viewers another reason to check it out.

What is Masters Of The Universe about?

Masters of the Universe follows Prince Adam (Nicholas Galitzine), who is reunited with the Sword of Power 15 years after becoming stranded on Earth.

Returning to his home planet of Eternia, now ruled by the evil Skeletor (Jared Leto), Adam joins forces with Teela (Camila Mendes) and Duncan (Idris Elba) to embrace his destiny as He-Man and battle to save his kingdom and the people he loves.

The concept of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe began in the early 1980s as a Mattel toy created to rival the success of Star Wars action figures.

The franchise quickly expanded with Filmation’s hit animated series in 1983, turning He-Man into one of the decade’s most recognisable pop culture heroes.

The reviewer at Digital Spy noted: “The film’s tone is comparable to the likes of Thor and Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves.

“While the humour doesn’t always land – there’s probably too many juvenile gags about swords and fists – it works more often than not, whether it’s an excellent slow-motion group shot gag or Adam’s hilarious attempts to be subtle when stealing his sword back.”

Rotten Tomato reviews

Giving the film a five out of five, one audience reviewer shared: “Masters of the Universe is a wonderful action film that consistently entertains.”

Another said: “Very fun movie! Seems like an old MCU movie in its action, stakes, and humour.” A third commented: “Good movie with a nod to the cartoon series brought back some good childhood memories.”

Critics on the film review site left less favourable comments. Randy Myers at San Jose Mercury News said: “It’s got the right cast and the right director; now it just needs to surrender to its cheesy outrageousness.”

Katie Walsh from Tribune News Service shared: “One only wishes they might have pushed the camp factor further, as it feels a bit restrained at times. However, it’s Galitzine’s performance that will win you over — he’s truly got the power.”

Masters Of The Universe is currently number one in the UK on Prime Video. Subscription members can stream it at no extra cost.