‘Masters of the Universe’ Film Considers Amazon As Its New Home Post Netflix Departure

In the world of “Masters of the Universe,” He-Man’s arch-enemy is the sinister sorcerer Skeletor. But in Hollywood, He-Man’s greatest adversary has been a string of studio setbacks that have kept him off the silver screen for almost two decades. However, it seems like the tides may finally be turning in He-Man’s favor.

According to Variety, Amazon MGM Studios is reportedly in serious talks to bring a live-action “Masters of the Universe” movie to life. The project is set to be helmed by Adam and Aaron Nee, the talented duo responsible for “The Lost City.” This development comes after Netflix dropped their planned version of the Nee brothers’ film in July.

Netflix had invested a hefty sum of nearly $30 million over two years in development for the project, initially aiming for a budget of over $200 million. However, they pulled the plug when it became clear that significant cost reductions weren’t feasible.

While discussions with Amazon are ongoing and somewhat precarious, there’s a chance the Nees could sign on for script revisions and directing duties if the project moves forward. Kyle Allen, originally intended to play He-Man, is still in contention for the role. Mattel and producer Todd Black, who has been committed to the film through various studio homes, including Warner Bros. and Sony, are also keen on securing a substantial theatrical release – a prospect that wasn’t as appealing at Netflix. Both Amazon MGM and Mattel declined to comment on the matter.

But like any compelling superhero story, there’s an antagonist lurking in the shadows. The rights to “Masters of the Universe” are ensnared in a complex web dating back more than a decade, when DreamWorks Animation acquired them as part of a larger content library. The agreement stipulated that Mattel could exploit “Masters” characters for film adaptations through 2026. As DreamWorks Animation is now under the NBCUniversal umbrella, this could potentially pose a hurdle for any sequels that Amazon MGM might want to develop.

However, negotiations between NBCU and Mattel have reportedly been ongoing for weeks, and a deal may be on the horizon. NBCUniversal declined to comment on the matter.

Insiders suggest that the film’s budget is currently below the $200 million mark, hovering around $170 million. If the rights negotiations come to a successful conclusion, it would mark a significant achievement for Courtenay Valenti, Amazon’s new head of theatrical film and streaming. Valenti, who previously served as the head of production at Warner Bros., played a key role in the success of the studio’s adaptation of Mattel’s “Barbie,” which raked in $1.4 billion worldwide and generated Oscar buzz. Her previous success might be driving her determination to secure the rights for He-Man.

The “Masters of the Universe” characters hold a special place in the hearts of many, and they currently star in a popular animated series on Netflix. Paired with the Nees’ talent for creating grand cinematic adventures, this could be the start of an epic franchise for Amazon.

Mattel, with its diverse portfolio of properties, is far from short of studio partnerships and development opportunities. From “Barbie” to Magic 8 Ball, Hot Wheels, Polly Pocket, and Uno, they have a lot on their plate. However, He-Man remains relentless in his quest to make it to the big screen, proving that he never gives up on breaking free from the toy box and onto the grand stage of cinema.

What are your thoughts on the potential revival of a live-action “Masters of the Universe” movie, and the challenges it faces with rights negotiations and studio partnerships? Share your opinions and speculations in the comments below.