‘Masters of the Universe’ Audience Score Drops on Rotten Tomatoes – See What the Fans Are Saying
The 2026 live-action film Masters of the Universe has seen a shift in audience response after its release, according to Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter. The film, which is based on Mattel’s long-running franchise, currently holds an audience score of 88 percent based on more than 1,000 verified ratings.
The film is directed by Travis Knight and written by Chris Butler, Aaron Nee, Adam Nee, and David Callaham. It stars Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Adam / He-Man, alongside Camila Mendes, Jared Leto, Alison Brie, James Purefoy, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson, Charlotte Riley, Kristen Wiig, Morena Baccarin, and Idris Elba. The story follows Prince Adam as he returns to the planet Eternia and accepts his destiny as He-Man in order to face Skeletor and protect his world.
Audience reactions have been positive, with some viewers praising the film’s action and nostalgic tone, but others have criticized its handling of the source material. Many positive reviews focus on the film’s entertainment value and visual effects. One viewer wrote, “Growing up with He-Man, this movie nails it. A fun, entertaining time at the movies with lots of action. Highly recommend.”
Another positive reaction described the film as a strong return for big theatrical entertainment. The viewer said, “First Summer Blockbuster!!! Its been a good minute since theres been an actual good movie in the movie theaters or good movie come out of Hollywood amazing movie funny the action was freaking awesome. Highly recommend to go see it in the theaters overall super happy with it definitely would go see it again in the theaters in a heartbeat.”
Some fans highlighted the nostalgic elements and connection to the original franchise. One review said, “Look cheeky Family friendly bring back a mix of the cartoons in the cartoon in the Netflix series, Jared Leto is unbelievable Stay tuned for the four extra credit scenes. This is gonna be an awesome franchise.”
However, not all audience reactions have been positive. Some viewers expressed disappointment with how the film handled the tone and characters.
One critical review said, “While the movie had a strong opening and the anti-toxic-masculinity message was fine, the movie itself felt downright hateful to the source material, from constantly making fun of character’s names and implying that they’re stupid, to the uncomfortable amount of dirty-minded jokes in a movie MARKETED TO KIDS BY WAY OF THE TOYLINE, the film just felt like it was made by people who hated the source material and wanted to make the viewer feel stupid for liking it in the first place. I was so hyped for this movie for months, but it was such a bitter disappointment, cannot recommend and I honestly want my money back, this was not worth the price of admission.”
Other viewers were more balanced in their reaction. One said, “The movie doesn’t take itself too seriously except for a few father/son scenes. Great effects are expected and it delivers. HeMan is a somewhat nerdy and a reluctant hero. But overall it was a fun ride and ended with the start of the sequel.”
Another review focused on its appeal to fans, saying, “He-man fans will find something to enjoy and they will have a nostalgic trip. If you truly are a fan of He-Man you will find something to enjoy. Unfortunately this movie will be a 6 or 7 for most people unfamiliar. I will say its a fun movie and everyone should give it a shot.”
The overall audience reaction shows an overall positive response. Many viewers appreciate the film’s action-heavy approach and nostalgic elements; but others feel it does not fully respect or capture the tone of the original material.
The film remains a major studio release tied to a well-known franchise, and its long-term reception will likely depend on how audiences respond to repeat viewings and potential future sequels.
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