Tom Wolfe coined the phrase “Masters of the universe” in his novel, “The Bonfire of the Vanities.” It was a reference to the kings of Wall Street who ran the financial world.
But there’s another Masters of the Universe. They’re from Mattel you franchise. Now, because “Barbie” was such a hit, we’re getting a movie about them from MGM and Amazon.
Nicholas Galitzine, the heart-throb of the year, will star as “He-Man.” Travis Knight is directing the film, which will be released exclusively in theaters worldwide on June 5, 2026. Chris Butler is writing the screenplay (initial draft written by David Callaham, and Aaron and Adam Nee). Plot details are being kept under wraps because, you know, they could affect The Universe.
Galitzine is currently starring in Amazon’s “The Idea of You” with Anne Hathaway. He was also a star of Amazon’s “Red, White, and Royal Blue,” and the Starz Channel’s “Mary and George.” He’s sort of like a young Brad Pitt with a British accent. Imagine if he were starring in a real “Masters of the Universe” about Wall Street. But that would be too upsetting.
There was a 1987 film of “Masters of the Universe” from Mattel that starred Dolph Lundgren, Frank Langella (what?), and a pre-“Friends” Courteney Cox. It was a huge flop although Wikipedia says it’s now a cult film. I heard recently that “Waterworld” is a cult film, too. Soon every box office disaster will be a cult film. Brain washing is a wonderful thing!