Netflix and Mattel are going big for the relaunch of the iconic Masters of the Universe franchise next year.
In addition to the previously announced Masters of the Universe: Revelation from filmmaker Kevin Smith, Netflix and Mattel Television have added a second animated series to the production slate.
While Masters of the Universe: Revelation will be an animated 2D continuation of the stories laid out in the 1980s Filmation universe, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe will be a complete reboot presented in 3D CGI animation. The second series is said to be a reimagining of the classic tale “with all-new storylines and a fresh take on the iconic characters.”
“Masters of the Universe is one of the most iconic global franchises of all time, with a 30-year history and a passionate fan base,” says Fred Soulie, senior vice president of content distribution and business development at Mattel. “The entire team at Mattel is excited to introduce the world of He-Man to a new generation and, together with the talented team at Netflix, to reimagine the classic characters in a way that appeals to kids and families today, while also resonating with the fans who grew up with them.”
If it sounds like we’re witnessing the birth of a He-Man animated multiverse, that just might be the idea. Last month, DC Comics launched a six-issue miniseries titled He-Man and the Masters of the Multiverse, so it doesn’t seem like much of a stretch to envision separate — yet potentially colliding — versions of Eternian lore. It’s an old idea that’s new again, as evidenced by the current CW Arrowverse crossover event Crisis on Infinite Earths.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe is being produced by Mattel Television with Adam Bonnett (Descendants), Christopher Keenan (Justice League, Batman Beyond), and Rob David (Masters of the Universe: Revelation, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) serving as executive producers. The series was developed for television by Rob David. Emmy-winning producer and designer Jeff Matsuda (The Batman, TMNT) and Susan Corbin (Voltron) will also produce. Bryan Q Miller (Arrow, Smallville, Sleepy Hollow) will serve as story editor on the series. Animation services are being provided by House of Cool and CGCG (Trollhunters).
For those keeping score at home, the Masters of the Universe relaunch now includes two animated series, comic books, the Masters of the Universe Origins toy line, a Masters of the WWE Universe crossover, the relaunch of Masters of the Universe Minis, a new book about the He-Man and She-Ra toy lines, DVD reissues of the Filmation He-Man and the Masters of the Universe and She-Ra Princess of Power, and the long-awaited live-action film, which is still currently dated for 2021. It’s been a while since we’ve had news to report on that front (is Noah Centinio still Prince Adam?), but recent rumblings point to Sony Pictures allegedly mulling the idea of producing the film for, you guessed it, Netflix.
Photos: Netflix, DC Comics
