Netflix has canceled the live-action ‘Masters of the Universe‘ movie. The film, based on He-Man and other Mattel toys, had a production cost of $100 million. Netflix had already spent $30 million on development and retaining talent like Kyle Allen and the directing duo Adam and Aaron Nee.
What is the Plot of Masters of the Universe?
According to the film’s plot:
Set on the planet Eternia, ‘Masters of the Universe’ focuses on Prince Adam, who leads the life of royalty. Unknown to all but a few close friends/allies, Prince Adam is actually a hero, the mighty He-Man. Together with his friends (such as Teela; her father, a man-at-arms; the mysterious Orko; and his mighty friend/horse substitute, Battle Cat), He-Man battles the evil Skeletor and his minions for control of the world and, more importantly, for the control, power, and “honor of Greyskull,” the mysterious castle from which He-Man derives his powers.
Mattel Seeks Buyer for Masters of the Universe Movie After Netflix Cancellation
Speaking to Variety, Mattel’s spokesperson confirmed the cancellation of the live-action ‘Masters of the Universe’ movie on Netflix. The project has been in development since 2008, initially with Warner Bros. and later with Sony. Over the years, various names like John Stevenson, Jon M. Chu, McG, and David S. Goyer were involved in the script and the project. In early 2020, it was confirmed that Netflix would be involved in the ‘Masters of the Universe’ movie project, potentially due to their focus on animation and their connection to Noah Centineo.
Robbie Brenner, the producer involved in the ‘Masters of the Universe’ movie project, has been actively seeking a new buyer for the property. Efforts were made to engage Universal Pictures in the past month, but the studio decided not to acquire the film. Mattel, along with Brenner, is indeed hoping that the success of the ‘Barbie’ film, projected to earn over $100 million at the box office, will improve their chances of finding a new buyer for the ‘Masters of the Universe’ movie.
The ongoing SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes have complicated the involvement of actor Kyle Allen and the Nee brothers in the ‘Masters of the Universe’ movie. Production schedules are in chaos, and Allen may pursue other projects. The Nee brothers have a prior deal with Universal for a Lego franchise film.
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