Since it began in 1984, 40 years ago this year, The Transformers has always had an uncomfortably close relationship with a particularly gross, child-exploiting branch of capitalism — the one that creates cartoon mascots who are driven insane by how delicious sugary cereal is, the one that puts prizes in Happy Meal boxes, and, of course, the one that creates entire TV shows and movies built around selling toys like G.I. Joe or He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. Like The Transformers, those shows were all part of an '80s cartoon boom triggered by the way Ronald Reagan’s far-right FCC decided to dramatically roll back protections against advertisements directed at children.
- 4/15/2024
- by Sam Barsanti
- Primetimer
After introducing readers to the masked convention slasher known as Killr™ last fall, Stephen Graham Jones, Joshua Viola, and Ben Matsuya are teaming up to bring readers back to the Colorado Festival of Horror for another round of killer cosplay in True Believers #2. Once again featuring star-studded cameos and plenty of murderous mayhem, True Believers #2 is coming soon to Kickstarter via Hex Publishers, and we're thrilled to exclusively reveal that Trivium vocalist and guitarist Matthew Kiichi Heafy will appear in the second issue, and we also have a reveal of the new variant cover by Luigi Scarcella!
Below, we have the official press release and exclusive variant cover art reveal, and to support True Believers #2, be sure to keep an eye on the comic book's official Kickstarter page:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hexpublishers/true-believers-2-a-horror-cosplay-comic-book?ref=4cf9gc
Also, to learn more about True Believers, watch Jonathan James' previous...
Below, we have the official press release and exclusive variant cover art reveal, and to support True Believers #2, be sure to keep an eye on the comic book's official Kickstarter page:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hexpublishers/true-believers-2-a-horror-cosplay-comic-book?ref=4cf9gc
Also, to learn more about True Believers, watch Jonathan James' previous...
- 3/26/2024
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
While Bloodsport, the 1988 martial arts tournament movie, is widely considered by fans to be Jean-Claude Van Damme’s best film, it almost never saw the light of day. Indeed, according to Nick De Semlyen’s book, “Last Action Heroes” (buy it here), the film was deemed unreleasable by Cannon Pictures head Menachem Golan. The film sat on the shelf for fourteen months and was considered so bad that Golan intended to release the movie direct-to-video.
Things got so heated that Golan refused to go ahead with a proposed sequel to Lone Wolf McQuade, which would have featured Van Damme teaming up with Chuck Norris (who was an early mentor to Jcvd). He wanted Michael Dudikoff instead.
According to the book, Van Damme, who had returned to his old job as a limo driver when the movie wrapped, convinced the studio to allow him to re-edit the film with Towering Inferno editor Carl Press.
Things got so heated that Golan refused to go ahead with a proposed sequel to Lone Wolf McQuade, which would have featured Van Damme teaming up with Chuck Norris (who was an early mentor to Jcvd). He wanted Michael Dudikoff instead.
According to the book, Van Damme, who had returned to his old job as a limo driver when the movie wrapped, convinced the studio to allow him to re-edit the film with Towering Inferno editor Carl Press.
- 3/13/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: Sony has preemptively closed a deal for film rights to Grady Hendrix’s short story “Ankle Snatcher,” tapping Hendrix to adapt it for the screen, sources tell Deadline. Hendrix is also set to produce alongside Escape Artists’ Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal and Tony Shaw, as well as Aperture Entertainment’s Adam Goldworm.
The first short story Hendrix has taken to market, after setting up numerous novels and original screenplays for adaptation, “Ankle Snatcher” was released in September 2023 as part of Amazon Original Stories’ Creature Feature collection comprised of six original stories written by New York Times bestselling authors, the others being Joe Hill, Josh Malerman, Paul Tremblay, Jason Mott, and Chandler Baker.
Hendrix’s story follows Marcus, who grew up believing his father killed his mother — then blamed it on the boogeyman under the bed. Always leave the lights on, his father warned, or the boogeyman will get you.
The first short story Hendrix has taken to market, after setting up numerous novels and original screenplays for adaptation, “Ankle Snatcher” was released in September 2023 as part of Amazon Original Stories’ Creature Feature collection comprised of six original stories written by New York Times bestselling authors, the others being Joe Hill, Josh Malerman, Paul Tremblay, Jason Mott, and Chandler Baker.
Hendrix’s story follows Marcus, who grew up believing his father killed his mother — then blamed it on the boogeyman under the bed. Always leave the lights on, his father warned, or the boogeyman will get you.
- 3/8/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Growing up, Rosy Carrick was fascinated by Schwarzenegger, Lundgren and other shredded 80s screen stars. Now she is exploring what they helped her realise about her sex life
Is there a gap between our private desires and the ones we are brave enough to share? Not for Arnold Schwarzenegger. In the 1977 documentary Pumping Iron, a young Arnie equated weightlifting with ejaculating. “It’s as satisfying to me as coming,” he declares with a grin.
Schwarzenegger and fellow shredded action star Dolph Lundgren are central to actor, playwright and poet Rosy Carrick’s latest show, Musclebound. She was captivated by them as an adolescent and, a while ago, revisited Masters of the Universe, starring Lundgren as He-Man. During a torture scene where Lundgren is stripped almost naked, and has his oiled-up, hairless body whipped by his enemies, something struck her.
Is there a gap between our private desires and the ones we are brave enough to share? Not for Arnold Schwarzenegger. In the 1977 documentary Pumping Iron, a young Arnie equated weightlifting with ejaculating. “It’s as satisfying to me as coming,” he declares with a grin.
Schwarzenegger and fellow shredded action star Dolph Lundgren are central to actor, playwright and poet Rosy Carrick’s latest show, Musclebound. She was captivated by them as an adolescent and, a while ago, revisited Masters of the Universe, starring Lundgren as He-Man. During a torture scene where Lundgren is stripped almost naked, and has his oiled-up, hairless body whipped by his enemies, something struck her.
- 3/4/2024
- by Rachael Healy
- The Guardian - Film News
‘Bumblebee’ helmer, Travis Knight, has entered into negotiations to jump on board the long-awaited live-action adaptation of ‘Masters of the Universe’.
Knight’s longtime collaborator, Chris Butler (co-directed ‘ParaNorman’ and wrote ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’), is also along for the ride, He has been brought on to rewrite the script. Over the years the project had drafts from David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee.
Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who have been with the project for decades, are producing along with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner.
Also in news – Ewan McGregor set for David Robert Mitchell’s mystery dinosaur movie
Rumour has it that Conan the Barbarian was the influence behind the initial He-Man toy and comics released by Mattel in 1982, the toy was such a major success Mattel soon turned the action figure into a children’s animated TV series.
By the time the animated series was developed,...
Knight’s longtime collaborator, Chris Butler (co-directed ‘ParaNorman’ and wrote ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’), is also along for the ride, He has been brought on to rewrite the script. Over the years the project had drafts from David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee.
Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who have been with the project for decades, are producing along with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner.
Also in news – Ewan McGregor set for David Robert Mitchell’s mystery dinosaur movie
Rumour has it that Conan the Barbarian was the influence behind the initial He-Man toy and comics released by Mattel in 1982, the toy was such a major success Mattel soon turned the action figure into a children’s animated TV series.
By the time the animated series was developed,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
“Barbie” is a cultural phenomenon, grossing nearly $1.5 billion and racking up eight Oscar nominations, all while launching scores of catchphrases and memes.
So it’s understandable that Mattel, the company behind the iconic doll, is looking to capitalize on its cinematic success by developing dozens of movies based on its games and toys. Moviegoers can look forward to Barney, Bob the Builder and He-Man hitting the big screen in the not-so-distant future.
But as Hollywood raids toy store shelves to feed its insatiable hunger for IP, it’s worth noting that when it comes to this type of film, for every “Barbie”-sized smash there’s a “Battleship”-like bomb. With that in mind, here are some of the movies that Mattel has in the works.
Barney
Key creative: Daniel Kaluuya (producer and star)
Another Barbie? You may think you know Barney. But Kaluuya is here to say the purple...
So it’s understandable that Mattel, the company behind the iconic doll, is looking to capitalize on its cinematic success by developing dozens of movies based on its games and toys. Moviegoers can look forward to Barney, Bob the Builder and He-Man hitting the big screen in the not-so-distant future.
But as Hollywood raids toy store shelves to feed its insatiable hunger for IP, it’s worth noting that when it comes to this type of film, for every “Barbie”-sized smash there’s a “Battleship”-like bomb. With that in mind, here are some of the movies that Mattel has in the works.
Barney
Key creative: Daniel Kaluuya (producer and star)
Another Barbie? You may think you know Barney. But Kaluuya is here to say the purple...
- 2/15/2024
- by Brent Lang and Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Fortnite is one of the most popular games out there, and it’s been like that ever since its release, thanks to the large number of collaborations that the game brings to keep things interesting for players. There have been several kinds of collaborations in the game, from TV franchises and the film world to artists like Eminem and Travis Scott, and more.
The game has also collaborated with some of the most popular anime shows, and there are now rumors that Fortnite is set to get a crossover with the biggest anime show of all time, which might potentially see new character skins, gameplay changes, and more on offer for anime fans.
Leak Suggests Fortnite x One Piece Crossover Is Coming in the Future
A new leak reveals Fortnite might be collaborating with One Piece.
Fortnite has collaborated with a bunch of anime shows, including Dragon Ball Z, Naruto,...
The game has also collaborated with some of the most popular anime shows, and there are now rumors that Fortnite is set to get a crossover with the biggest anime show of all time, which might potentially see new character skins, gameplay changes, and more on offer for anime fans.
Leak Suggests Fortnite x One Piece Crossover Is Coming in the Future
A new leak reveals Fortnite might be collaborating with One Piece.
Fortnite has collaborated with a bunch of anime shows, including Dragon Ball Z, Naruto,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Rohit Tiwari
- FandomWire
The recent casting of the Fantastic Four placed the film firmly in the 1960s Marvel universe. This opens the door for Will Smith to finally play the powerhouse hero Blue Marvel. As one of Marvel’s strongest superheroes, Blue Marvel has the power to make even the Sentinels break a sweat. While fans have been speculating for a long time that Smith will enter the Marvel universe, this news can be just the breakthrough everyone has been waiting for.
Will Smith as Blue Marvel after Fantastic Four confirm the 1960s setting?
Will Smith in I Am Legend
Blue Marvel, aka Adam Brashear, gained his abilities after a scientific accident involving antimatter. With strength rivaling the Hulk and Thor, Blue Marvel can move objects as large as the state of Arkansas with ease. He also has near-invulnerability, flight powers, and control over antimatter energy.
Since it’s confirmed Fantastic Four takes place in the 60s,...
Will Smith as Blue Marvel after Fantastic Four confirm the 1960s setting?
Will Smith in I Am Legend
Blue Marvel, aka Adam Brashear, gained his abilities after a scientific accident involving antimatter. With strength rivaling the Hulk and Thor, Blue Marvel can move objects as large as the state of Arkansas with ease. He also has near-invulnerability, flight powers, and control over antimatter energy.
Since it’s confirmed Fantastic Four takes place in the 60s,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Nivedita Dubey
- FandomWire
When a director circles a project, it can be a tentative proposition – as we all discovered last week when word began to spread that David Leitch was likely to make the next Jurassic World entry, before he swiftly dropped out. But things are apparently much more promising for Bumblebee director (and Laika studio boss) Travis Knight, who is closing in on a deal to handle the new live-action Masters Of The Universe film.
According to Deadline's sources, Knight has yet to sign, but it's looking good for him — especially since Chris Butler, a veteran Laika writer and director – is polishing the script. But they'll need all the help they can get, as this is one that has eluded more than one studio and a host of filmmakers.
Masters Of The Universe, for anyone who might not know, was born from Mattel's 1980s toy line of sword and sorcery figures,...
According to Deadline's sources, Knight has yet to sign, but it's looking good for him — especially since Chris Butler, a veteran Laika writer and director – is polishing the script. But they'll need all the help they can get, as this is one that has eluded more than one studio and a host of filmmakers.
Masters Of The Universe, for anyone who might not know, was born from Mattel's 1980s toy line of sword and sorcery figures,...
- 2/14/2024
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
Amazon’s Masters Of The Universe film may finally have a director, with Bumblebee and Kubo And The Two Strings’ Travis Knight said to be in ‘final negotiations.’
Tinseltown trade outlets often talk about actors and filmmakers ‘circling’ movie projects and deals, as though they’re little kestrels hovering about looking for their lunch.
The kestrel in question here is Travis Knight, who most recently directed the Transformers spin-off Bumblebee for Paramount Pictures. According to Deadline’s exclusive, Knight’s in “final talks” with Amazon MGM Studios to direct the latest film adaptation of Masters Of The Universe, based on the 1980s animated series and toy line of the same name.
Knight clearly has strong ideas for the film, with Deadline’s sources saying the filmmaker showed up at the studio’s offices with a presentation which laid out his take on He-Man. That presentation impressed Amazon MGM bosses enough...
Tinseltown trade outlets often talk about actors and filmmakers ‘circling’ movie projects and deals, as though they’re little kestrels hovering about looking for their lunch.
The kestrel in question here is Travis Knight, who most recently directed the Transformers spin-off Bumblebee for Paramount Pictures. According to Deadline’s exclusive, Knight’s in “final talks” with Amazon MGM Studios to direct the latest film adaptation of Masters Of The Universe, based on the 1980s animated series and toy line of the same name.
Knight clearly has strong ideas for the film, with Deadline’s sources saying the filmmaker showed up at the studio’s offices with a presentation which laid out his take on He-Man. That presentation impressed Amazon MGM bosses enough...
- 2/14/2024
- by Ryan Lambie
- Film Stories
Mattel Television has officially announced that Hot Wheels Let’s Race, a new animated children’s series, will premiere on Netflix in Spring 2024.
The 3Dcg series, based on Mattel’s Hot Wheels franchise, features out-of-this-world vehicles, daring characters, and high-octane racing and promises “a fast-paced comedy thrilling ride for the whole family.”
When Will Hot Wheels Let’s Race Be Released?
Mattel and Netflix announced recently that Hot Wheels Let’s Race, Mattel Television Studios’ all-new animated children’s series, will premiere on Netflix worldwide on March 4 of this year.
Storyline of Hot Wheels Let’s Race Netflix
The series is a thrilling comedy show based on the renowned Hot Wheels toy brand. It follows the latest generation of racers, Coop, Spark, Mac, Brights, Axle, & Sidecar, as they attend a racing camp where the pedal is always to the metal. The series first looks at several featured cars, such as the Gt Scorcher, Baja Jump Truck,...
The 3Dcg series, based on Mattel’s Hot Wheels franchise, features out-of-this-world vehicles, daring characters, and high-octane racing and promises “a fast-paced comedy thrilling ride for the whole family.”
When Will Hot Wheels Let’s Race Be Released?
Mattel and Netflix announced recently that Hot Wheels Let’s Race, Mattel Television Studios’ all-new animated children’s series, will premiere on Netflix worldwide on March 4 of this year.
Storyline of Hot Wheels Let’s Race Netflix
The series is a thrilling comedy show based on the renowned Hot Wheels toy brand. It follows the latest generation of racers, Coop, Spark, Mac, Brights, Axle, & Sidecar, as they attend a racing camp where the pedal is always to the metal. The series first looks at several featured cars, such as the Gt Scorcher, Baja Jump Truck,...
- 2/14/2024
- by Mantisha
- https://dailyresearchplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/new-sam
Travis Knight just may have the power.
The Laika CEO and part-time filmmaker is in early talks to direct the long-in-the-works live-action adaptation of Masters of the Universe for Amazon MGM Studios, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
Knight isn’t coming alone. Chris Butler, a longtime Knight and Laika collaborator who wrote and co-directed ParaNorman and wrote Kubo and the Two Strings, among other projects, has been brought on to rewrite the script. Over the years the project had drafts from David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee.
Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who have been with the projects for decades, are producing along with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner.
Amazon MGM had no comment.
Hollywood has long been trying to get the toy line centered on Prince Adam, the young man who becomes the muscular He-Man once he gets the Power Sword in his hands and says the words,...
The Laika CEO and part-time filmmaker is in early talks to direct the long-in-the-works live-action adaptation of Masters of the Universe for Amazon MGM Studios, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
Knight isn’t coming alone. Chris Butler, a longtime Knight and Laika collaborator who wrote and co-directed ParaNorman and wrote Kubo and the Two Strings, among other projects, has been brought on to rewrite the script. Over the years the project had drafts from David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee.
Escape Artists’ Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal, who have been with the projects for decades, are producing along with Mattel’s Robbie Brenner.
Amazon MGM had no comment.
Hollywood has long been trying to get the toy line centered on Prince Adam, the young man who becomes the muscular He-Man once he gets the Power Sword in his hands and says the words,...
- 2/13/2024
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Here we go again. Another year is starting, which means it's time for the "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" movie to get yet another director. Like so many projects stuck in developing hell, it seems like practically every director currently working in Hollywood has, at some point, been involved in this film.
Now, Deadline reports that Travis Knight — the director of "Bumblebee" and "Kubo and the Two Strings," founder and CEO of Laika, and son of Nike co-founder Phil Knight — is the latest name to be attached to the long-in-development "Masters of the Universe" movie from Mattel. The report specifically says he is in "final negotiations" to direct, yet the deal hasn't closed just yet as other elements of the film are still being figured out. Nevertheless, this is exciting news, and brings the project one step closer to actually getting made.
Knight is reportedly bringing along writer...
Now, Deadline reports that Travis Knight — the director of "Bumblebee" and "Kubo and the Two Strings," founder and CEO of Laika, and son of Nike co-founder Phil Knight — is the latest name to be attached to the long-in-development "Masters of the Universe" movie from Mattel. The report specifically says he is in "final negotiations" to direct, yet the deal hasn't closed just yet as other elements of the film are still being figured out. Nevertheless, this is exciting news, and brings the project one step closer to actually getting made.
Knight is reportedly bringing along writer...
- 2/13/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
The live action Masters of the Universe feature film reboot has been gestating for a while now, and Deadline reports today that Travis Knight (Bumblebee) is now in talks to direct.
Deadline notes that “Travis Knight is in final negotiations to direct.” The exclusive report goes on to say, “Insiders say his deal has still not closed and that other elements on the project are still coming together but all signs are pointing to Knight being the top choice to direct.”
Adam and Aaron Nee (The Lost City) wrote the original version of the script with David Callaham (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), which Chris Butler will rewrite.
The site also reports, “This film revolves around when Prince Adam was 9-years-old, he crashed to Earth in a spaceship and was separated from his Magical Sword – the only link to his home on Eternia. After tracking it down almost two decades later,...
Deadline notes that “Travis Knight is in final negotiations to direct.” The exclusive report goes on to say, “Insiders say his deal has still not closed and that other elements on the project are still coming together but all signs are pointing to Knight being the top choice to direct.”
Adam and Aaron Nee (The Lost City) wrote the original version of the script with David Callaham (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), which Chris Butler will rewrite.
The site also reports, “This film revolves around when Prince Adam was 9-years-old, he crashed to Earth in a spaceship and was separated from his Magical Sword – the only link to his home on Eternia. After tracking it down almost two decades later,...
- 2/13/2024
- by John Squires
- bloody-disgusting.com
Mattel’s Masters of the Universe movie hasn’t had the easiest path, but the long-in-development project has taken a big step forward as Deadline reports that Bumblebee director Travis Knight is in final negotiations to helm the movie.
Although Deadline cautions that the deal is still coming together, the report states that Knight was the only director in the mix to give an in-person presentation, which made him the top choice for the gig. Chris Butler will rewrite the script from the previous draft penned by David Callaham, Aaron and Adam Nee. The project was previously set up at Netflix, but the streaming service scrapped the project last summer. It was later reported that the movie could find a new home at Amazon MGM Studios, and according to Deadline, they’re now in final negotiations for the rights.
Related Twister 2: Dan Trachtenberg not directing the sequel
Aaron and...
Although Deadline cautions that the deal is still coming together, the report states that Knight was the only director in the mix to give an in-person presentation, which made him the top choice for the gig. Chris Butler will rewrite the script from the previous draft penned by David Callaham, Aaron and Adam Nee. The project was previously set up at Netflix, but the streaming service scrapped the project last summer. It was later reported that the movie could find a new home at Amazon MGM Studios, and according to Deadline, they’re now in final negotiations for the rights.
Related Twister 2: Dan Trachtenberg not directing the sequel
Aaron and...
- 2/13/2024
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
“Griselda” reigned supreme as a queenpin of the Netflix Top 10 following its Jan. 25 premiere. Inspired by the life of notorious cartel boss Griselda Blanco scored 20.6 million total views during the Jan. 22-28 viewing window, and was No. 1 in 89 countries, making it the most watched title of the week. Starring and executive produced by Sofia Vergara, the series is created by Eric Newman and directed by Andres Baiz.
Meanwhile on the film side, “Leave the World Behind,” which previously spent several weeks at No. 1, joined, entered the Most Popular English Films List at No. 8 with 136.3 million views in its first 52 days on the streamer.
Also, F. Gary Gray and Kevin Hart’s “Lift” continued its No. 1 run on the English Films chart with 17.4 million views as Daniel Kaluuya’s dystopian directorial debut “The Kitchen” took third place with 7.7 million views and Adam Sandler’s “Leo” spent its 10th week among the top 10 with 2.9 million views.
Meanwhile on the film side, “Leave the World Behind,” which previously spent several weeks at No. 1, joined, entered the Most Popular English Films List at No. 8 with 136.3 million views in its first 52 days on the streamer.
Also, F. Gary Gray and Kevin Hart’s “Lift” continued its No. 1 run on the English Films chart with 17.4 million views as Daniel Kaluuya’s dystopian directorial debut “The Kitchen” took third place with 7.7 million views and Adam Sandler’s “Leo” spent its 10th week among the top 10 with 2.9 million views.
- 1/30/2024
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Largely rejected upon its release back in 1987, the live-action film adaptation of Masters of the Universe (watch it Here) has gathered a cult following over the decades, and elements of the film have even been worked into the recent animated Netflix shows Masters of the Universe: Revelation and Masters of the Universe: Revolution. On April 17th, Umbrella Home Entertainment in Australia will be giving the film a collector’s edition Blu-ray release – and copies are available for pre-order Here! (Just make sure you have the ability to play Region B Blu-rays before ordering one.)
Directed by Gary Goddard from a screenplay by David Odell, Masters of the Universe has the following synopsis: When the evil Skeletor finds a mysterious power called the Cosmic Key, he becomes nearly invincible. However, courageous warrior He-Man locates inventor Gwildor, who created the Key and has another version of it. During a battle, one of...
Directed by Gary Goddard from a screenplay by David Odell, Masters of the Universe has the following synopsis: When the evil Skeletor finds a mysterious power called the Cosmic Key, he becomes nearly invincible. However, courageous warrior He-Man locates inventor Gwildor, who created the Key and has another version of it. During a battle, one of...
- 1/29/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
With all due respect to everything that made Masters of the Universe so popular during the 1980s, there is no denying the fact that through numerous retellings of the saga, the characterization and narrative treatment have always oscillated between edginess and stagnation. Thanks to the dedicated collectors, the franchise has managed to keep its footing for so long in the pop culture landscape, which otherwise doesn’t allow space for such dated lore, which hardly grew in the span of thirty years. The challenge of exploring new possibilities while remaining faithful to the essence of the source material seemed to be a daunting task, especially when it came time to tackle the He-Man lore.
With Netflix allowing much-needed freedom, Kevin Smith’s Masters of the Universe adaptations finally break the shackles of the franchise’s’ outdated treatment as they manage to strike the perfect balance between new ideas and the original vision of the makers.
With Netflix allowing much-needed freedom, Kevin Smith’s Masters of the Universe adaptations finally break the shackles of the franchise’s’ outdated treatment as they manage to strike the perfect balance between new ideas and the original vision of the makers.
- 1/26/2024
- by Siddhartha Das
- Film Fugitives
One of the defining features of toy line-oriented franchise is that there is no shortage of visually appealing characters. A vast number of behavioral archetypes and appearance combinations ensure a steady supply of characters, targeted to bolster sales numbers while ignoring the quality of the writing behind them. Similarly, one of Mattel’s most popular toy line IPs, Masters of the Universe set in the fantasy-adventure genre, boasts a significant number of key figures which have gone through little to no change since their first appearance during the 80s.
With the advent of Ott, a number of franchises have received a new opportunity to unlock their potential, and Netflix’s Masters of the Universe, released in 2021, proved the storytelling prospects of He-Man lore when makers aren’t afraid to take risks. Despite being hit with seemingly divisive reactions, the series served its purpose of rejuvenating the fandom, and as a result,...
With the advent of Ott, a number of franchises have received a new opportunity to unlock their potential, and Netflix’s Masters of the Universe, released in 2021, proved the storytelling prospects of He-Man lore when makers aren’t afraid to take risks. Despite being hit with seemingly divisive reactions, the series served its purpose of rejuvenating the fandom, and as a result,...
- 1/26/2024
- by Siddhartha Das
- Film Fugitives
The cast of Masters of the Universe: Revolution includes some notable names from geek culture.
The Masters of the Universe franchise started as a hugely successful 1980s toy line with a corresponding cartoon that was little more than a thinly-veiled commercial for the action figures.
Now, Kevin Smith and Netflix have joined forces for an animated continuation that’s much more sophisticated than its Reagan-era counterpart. Part 1 of this revival arrived in 2021, and the next installment has finally dropped.
Read full article on The Direct.
The Masters of the Universe franchise started as a hugely successful 1980s toy line with a corresponding cartoon that was little more than a thinly-veiled commercial for the action figures.
Now, Kevin Smith and Netflix have joined forces for an animated continuation that’s much more sophisticated than its Reagan-era counterpart. Part 1 of this revival arrived in 2021, and the next installment has finally dropped.
Read full article on The Direct.
- 1/26/2024
- by Jennifer McDonough
- The Direct
This article contains spoilers for Masters of the Universe: Revolution.
The big twist at the end of Masters of the Universe: Revelation Part 2 was the reveal of Hordak (Keith David), the main villain of the original 1985 She-Ra series. Masters of the Universe: Revolution directly follows on from that, with Skeletor (Mark Hamill) working for and eventually betraying Hordak.
Episode 4 has the two duke it out in a battle right out of kids playtime, with Hordak’s legs even shapeshifting into a rocket. Skeletor manages to gain the upper-hand and seemingly kills Hordak, stabbing him through the heart. That isn’t the end of him, though.
The fifth and final episode of Revolution has Skeletor defeated and Eternia saved. It feels like the show is wrapping itself up, ready to close out this chapter in the Motu franchise. Then, nope, we get a final scene that sends the show hurtling in an incredible new direction.
The big twist at the end of Masters of the Universe: Revelation Part 2 was the reveal of Hordak (Keith David), the main villain of the original 1985 She-Ra series. Masters of the Universe: Revolution directly follows on from that, with Skeletor (Mark Hamill) working for and eventually betraying Hordak.
Episode 4 has the two duke it out in a battle right out of kids playtime, with Hordak’s legs even shapeshifting into a rocket. Skeletor manages to gain the upper-hand and seemingly kills Hordak, stabbing him through the heart. That isn’t the end of him, though.
The fifth and final episode of Revolution has Skeletor defeated and Eternia saved. It feels like the show is wrapping itself up, ready to close out this chapter in the Motu franchise. Then, nope, we get a final scene that sends the show hurtling in an incredible new direction.
- 1/25/2024
- by Shamus Kelley
- Den of Geek
Plot: The new epic chapter in the battle for Castle Grayskull!. The newly mechanized Skeletor, armed with Motherboard’s might, attacks Eternia’s heart while Prince Adam grapples with a new responsibility and what that means for him as He-Man!
Review: Back in 2021, I gave a glowing review to Kevin Smith’s revival of He-Man. Titled Masters of the Universe: Revelation, the Netflix original was released in two five-episode drops, both of which I loved. A blend of modern animation techniques coupled with a throwback to the Filmation style of the 1980s cartoon, Revelation was blasted online by a vocal minority who disliked Smith’s decision to “kill off” Prince Adam in the first episode and make the series centered on Teela and many of the female characters. By the end of the full series, Smith’s vision came to fruition, even though many fans were not swayed. The second...
Review: Back in 2021, I gave a glowing review to Kevin Smith’s revival of He-Man. Titled Masters of the Universe: Revelation, the Netflix original was released in two five-episode drops, both of which I loved. A blend of modern animation techniques coupled with a throwback to the Filmation style of the 1980s cartoon, Revelation was blasted online by a vocal minority who disliked Smith’s decision to “kill off” Prince Adam in the first episode and make the series centered on Teela and many of the female characters. By the end of the full series, Smith’s vision came to fruition, even though many fans were not swayed. The second...
- 1/25/2024
- by Alex Maidy
- JoBlo.com
Nearly 40 years after he made his big screen debut with a brief appearance in the James Bond picture “A View to a Kill,” Dolph Lundgren is still best known as an actor thanks to a series of iconic roles in ’80s and ’90s favorites like “Rocky IV,” “Masters of the Universe,” and “Universal Soldier.” (More recently he’s been a fixture in the “Expendables” and “Aquaman” franchises.) Yet for the past couple of decades, Lundgren has been quietly forging a side career as an accomplished writer and director of low-budget action films, movies that belie their limited resources in ambition and craftsmanship. Like the scrappy genre directors of Hollywood’s past — filmmakers like Budd Boetticher, Sam Fuller, and Don Siegel — Lundgren uses the creative freedom of lower budgets to smuggle his personal obsessions and stylistic preoccupations into accessible entertainments that are as intelligent as they are lively.
Lundgren’s latest release,...
Lundgren’s latest release,...
- 1/25/2024
- by Jim Hemphill
- Indiewire
This article contains spoilers for Masters of the Universe: Revolution.
Episode 3 of Masters of the Universe: Revolution features former Man-At-Arms Duncan (Liam Cunningham) and wizard Orko (Griffin Newman) achieving an important goal, enhancing He-Man’s Sword of Power. To do this, Duncan goes to the one person he believes can do it, a locksmith who is, “small in stature and tall on talent.”
That locksmith is a short creature named Gwildor (Ted Biaselli.)
For those not well-versed in their Masters of the Universe franchise lore, Gwildor doesn’t come from the original He-Man and the Masters of the Universe Filmation cartoon. He actually debuted in the 1987 live-action movie, Masters of the Universe, played by Billy Barty. In that film he was also a locksmith whose main purpose in the plot was as the creator of the Cosmic Key, the object used to transport He-Man and company to Earth in that film.
Episode 3 of Masters of the Universe: Revolution features former Man-At-Arms Duncan (Liam Cunningham) and wizard Orko (Griffin Newman) achieving an important goal, enhancing He-Man’s Sword of Power. To do this, Duncan goes to the one person he believes can do it, a locksmith who is, “small in stature and tall on talent.”
That locksmith is a short creature named Gwildor (Ted Biaselli.)
For those not well-versed in their Masters of the Universe franchise lore, Gwildor doesn’t come from the original He-Man and the Masters of the Universe Filmation cartoon. He actually debuted in the 1987 live-action movie, Masters of the Universe, played by Billy Barty. In that film he was also a locksmith whose main purpose in the plot was as the creator of the Cosmic Key, the object used to transport He-Man and company to Earth in that film.
- 1/25/2024
- by Shamus Kelley
- Den of Geek
Mattel Films, ShadowMachine, Jennifer Lopez’s Nuyorican Productions and Anthony Ramos are teaming up to develop an animated, feature-length film based on Bob the Builder, the long-running and beloved animated children’s series.
Imagined as an inventive international story for today’s audiences, the film will star Ramos, who also produces alongside Alex Bulkley and Corey Campodonico of the Academy Award-winning animation and production studio ShadowMachine. Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas and Benny Medina for Nuyorican Productions also have joined to co-produce.
Felipe Vargas is attached to write. The film will be overseen by Kevin McKeon, Ivan Sanchez and Arturo Thur De Koós for Mattel and Natalie Haack Flores for Nuyorican.
The film follows Roberto aka Bob (Ramos), who travels to the enchanting Island of Puerto Rico for a major construction job, takes on issues affecting the island and digs deeper into what it means to build. Bob’s journey will...
Imagined as an inventive international story for today’s audiences, the film will star Ramos, who also produces alongside Alex Bulkley and Corey Campodonico of the Academy Award-winning animation and production studio ShadowMachine. Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas and Benny Medina for Nuyorican Productions also have joined to co-produce.
Felipe Vargas is attached to write. The film will be overseen by Kevin McKeon, Ivan Sanchez and Arturo Thur De Koós for Mattel and Natalie Haack Flores for Nuyorican.
The film follows Roberto aka Bob (Ramos), who travels to the enchanting Island of Puerto Rico for a major construction job, takes on issues affecting the island and digs deeper into what it means to build. Bob’s journey will...
- 1/25/2024
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Aside from the transformation gimmick being a common factor, both the Masters of the Universe and Transformers franchises share the similarity of first and foremost being popular toy lines that were infused with distinctive lore in the 1980s to boost their sales. Even though Transformers has managed to expand its scope by adapting to changing times and finding a place across generations, the fantasy-adventure-oriented saga of He-Man has been stuck in the bubble of time for far too long and failed to appease a newer audience. After multiple attempts to revive the franchise failed through the years, Netflix and Mattel took a gamble in their efforts to rework the existing lore with a character-driven approach and bold narrative choices and brought the animated series Masters of the Universe: Revelations to light. In many ways, the series subverted the expectations of He-Man fans, resulting in extremely divisive reactions.
Perhaps this is the reason why,...
Perhaps this is the reason why,...
- 1/25/2024
- by Siddhartha Das
- Film Fugitives
He-Man once again has the power in Masters of the Universe: Revolution, and he’s back astride Battle Cat to face Skeletor and other evil forces in the ultimate war for Eternia. After the events of Masters of the Universe: Revelation, fans can expect a return to Motu’s roots in Revolution: nostalgic but cranked-up visuals and fight scenes from Powerhouse Animation Studios; an epic metal score by composer Bear McCreary; and a plot that puts the focus back on the legendary conflict between He-Man (Chris Wood) and Skeletor (Mark Hamill). “We’ve been building to this ultimate battle,” says Rob David, executive producer and Mattel vice president. “Their battle, especially in Revolution, encapsulates every theme of Masters of the Universe: magic vs. technology, good vs. evil, self-empowerment vs. duty to others. It’s all there in every punch.”
The creative team, led by executive producers Kevin Smith (Clerks), David,...
The creative team, led by executive producers Kevin Smith (Clerks), David,...
- 1/22/2024
- by Stephan Lee
- Tudum - Netflix
By the power of Grayskull…Netflix has released the official trailer for Master of the Universe: Revolution. The streaming service’s new trailer arrived alongside the official poster and news that John De Lancie has joined the cast to voice Granamyr.
“It’s technology versus magic when He-Man and the heroic warriors face the forces of Skeletor and something more in Masters of the Universe: Revolution – the new epic chapter in the battle for Castle Grayskull! The newly mechanized Skeletor, armed with the might of Motherboard, attacks the heart of Eternia while Prince Adam grapples with a new responsibility and what that means for him as He-Man!” reads Netflix’s very enthusiastic synopsis. “Adam is forced to choose between the scepter or the sword, and a life as either the King or the Champion! Meanwhile, the new Sorceress Teela searches for the secret of Snake Magic in the mists of...
“It’s technology versus magic when He-Man and the heroic warriors face the forces of Skeletor and something more in Masters of the Universe: Revolution – the new epic chapter in the battle for Castle Grayskull! The newly mechanized Skeletor, armed with the might of Motherboard, attacks the heart of Eternia while Prince Adam grapples with a new responsibility and what that means for him as He-Man!” reads Netflix’s very enthusiastic synopsis. “Adam is forced to choose between the scepter or the sword, and a life as either the King or the Champion! Meanwhile, the new Sorceress Teela searches for the secret of Snake Magic in the mists of...
- 1/12/2024
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Kevin Smith’s Netflix animated series Masters of the Universe: Revelation was envisioned as a follow-up to the 1980s show He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, and now Revelation is getting a follow-up of its own. Smith and Netflix are set to bring us the sequel series Masters of the Universe: Revolution on January 25th – and with two weeks to go until that date arrives, a full trailer for the show has arrived online! You can check it out in the embed above.
Masters of the Universe: Revelation consisted of ten episodes that were released in two blocks of five, and it looks like Masters of the Universe: Revolution is going to have the same release strategy. Five episodes will be available to watch on Netflix as of the 25th.
Revelation found that when Eternia was running low on magic, villain characters Tri-Klops, Trap Jaw, Whiplash, and Blast-Attak became...
Masters of the Universe: Revelation consisted of ten episodes that were released in two blocks of five, and it looks like Masters of the Universe: Revolution is going to have the same release strategy. Five episodes will be available to watch on Netflix as of the 25th.
Revelation found that when Eternia was running low on magic, villain characters Tri-Klops, Trap Jaw, Whiplash, and Blast-Attak became...
- 1/11/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Masters of the Universe: Revolution, created by Kevin Smith, is an anticipated animated superhero fiction series scheduled for premiere on Netflix. It is a follow-up to Masters of the Universe: Revelation.
Both series follow on from He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (1983-1985). The story follows Adam / He-Man & the others as they fight Skeletor and his evil armies. If you’re wondering when Masters of the Universe: Revolution will be released, you’ve come to the right spot.
When Will Masters of the Universe: Revolution Be Released? Netflix
On January 25, 2024, Masters of the Universe: Revolution will light up the screen.
Also Read: Kaiju No. 8 Chapter 100 Is Out to Read Now!
The Cast and Crew of the Masters of the Universe: Revolution. Yahoo Finance
Most of Revelation’s star-studded ensemble voice cast is expected to return for Masters of the Universe: Revolution with some new additions and modifications.
Chris Wood plays Prince Adam/He-Man,...
Both series follow on from He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (1983-1985). The story follows Adam / He-Man & the others as they fight Skeletor and his evil armies. If you’re wondering when Masters of the Universe: Revolution will be released, you’ve come to the right spot.
When Will Masters of the Universe: Revolution Be Released? Netflix
On January 25, 2024, Masters of the Universe: Revolution will light up the screen.
Also Read: Kaiju No. 8 Chapter 100 Is Out to Read Now!
The Cast and Crew of the Masters of the Universe: Revolution. Yahoo Finance
Most of Revelation’s star-studded ensemble voice cast is expected to return for Masters of the Universe: Revolution with some new additions and modifications.
Chris Wood plays Prince Adam/He-Man,...
- 1/5/2024
- by Mantisha
- https://dailyresearchplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/new-sam
A nearly unrecognizable Sofia Vergara playing a cartel boss, a new retelling of the story of the Uruguayan rugby team that crash-landed in the Andes in 1972, Kevin Hart assembling a team for a daring heist and Dan Levy dealing with loss and grief are among the standout projects hitting Netflix this January.
Spanish director J.A. Bayona’s Society of the Snow lands on Netflix on Jan. 4. The film is the latest cinematic retelling of the miraculous story of the Uruguayan rugby team that crash-landed on a glacier in the heart of the Andes in 1972, with the survivors being forced to resort to extreme measures to stay alive. After debuting in Venice, Society of the Snow has picked up plenty of awards on the international film festival circuit, and it recently made the shortlists in four categories for the 2024 Academy Awards, including best international feature film.
On Jan. 5, Netflix debuts Good Grief,...
Spanish director J.A. Bayona’s Society of the Snow lands on Netflix on Jan. 4. The film is the latest cinematic retelling of the miraculous story of the Uruguayan rugby team that crash-landed on a glacier in the heart of the Andes in 1972, with the survivors being forced to resort to extreme measures to stay alive. After debuting in Venice, Society of the Snow has picked up plenty of awards on the international film festival circuit, and it recently made the shortlists in four categories for the 2024 Academy Awards, including best international feature film.
On Jan. 5, Netflix debuts Good Grief,...
- 1/1/2024
- by Abid Rahman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It’s a quiet month on Netflix in January, but the streamer still has some good stuff lined up for the new year, including an interesting documentary about the Centra Tech cryptocurrency scam. Bitconned arrives on the first of the month alongside Netflix’s latest Harlan Coben adaptation, Fool Me Once, which sees an ex-soldier called Maya witness her husband’s murder on a nanny cam. The crime then leads her down a deadly path where she uncovers a deadly conspiracy.
Schitt’s Creek star Daniel Levy will also debut his first film as writer and director with Good Grief on Netflix this month. The movie follows Levy’s character Marc as he does some soul-searching after the death of his husband.
Kevin Hart has a new movie called Lift hitting the platform this month, too. He plays the leader of a heist crew looking to rob $500 million in gold from...
Schitt’s Creek star Daniel Levy will also debut his first film as writer and director with Good Grief on Netflix this month. The movie follows Levy’s character Marc as he does some soul-searching after the death of his husband.
Kevin Hart has a new movie called Lift hitting the platform this month, too. He plays the leader of a heist crew looking to rob $500 million in gold from...
- 1/1/2024
- by Kirsten Howard
- Den of Geek
I Come in Peace… You Go in Pieces!
So goes one of the coolest one-liners I have ever heard, and it’s part of one of the most unheralded Christmas action movies ever. Now, Christmas action movies have always been a thing. Something about the juxtaposition of the holidays and ultra-violent action has always been irresistible to Hollywood. In movies like First Blood and To Live and Die in LA, the holiday theme makes the desperately violent scenario all the more grim. At the same time, other classics like Lethal Weapon and Die Hard ultimately have Christmas messages about friendship and family that come through just as strongly as in a straight-up Christmas movie like It’s a Wonderful Life.
Yet, not every Christmas action flick becomes a classic, which brings me to this special Christmas edition of The Best Movie You Never Saw, where we tackle the Dolph Lundgren Actioner I Come In Peace,...
So goes one of the coolest one-liners I have ever heard, and it’s part of one of the most unheralded Christmas action movies ever. Now, Christmas action movies have always been a thing. Something about the juxtaposition of the holidays and ultra-violent action has always been irresistible to Hollywood. In movies like First Blood and To Live and Die in LA, the holiday theme makes the desperately violent scenario all the more grim. At the same time, other classics like Lethal Weapon and Die Hard ultimately have Christmas messages about friendship and family that come through just as strongly as in a straight-up Christmas movie like It’s a Wonderful Life.
Yet, not every Christmas action flick becomes a classic, which brings me to this special Christmas edition of The Best Movie You Never Saw, where we tackle the Dolph Lundgren Actioner I Come In Peace,...
- 12/24/2023
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Action icon Dolph Lundgren and Frasier himself Kelsey Grammer – who have actually worked together before, on The Expendables 3 – star in the upcoming action thriller Wanted Man, which is set to receive a theatrical, VOD, and digital release on January 19th. With that date just one month away, a trailer for Wanted Man has arrived online, and you can check it out in the embed above. A poster for the film has also been unveiled, and that can be found at the bottom of this article.
Lundgren also directed this film, working from a screenplay he wrote with Hank Hugues and Michael Worth. Here’s the synopsis: Johansen (Lundgren) is an aging detective, whose outdated policing methods have given the department a recent public relations problem. To save his job, he is sent to Mexico to extradite a female witness to the murders of two DEA agents. Once there, he finds...
Lundgren also directed this film, working from a screenplay he wrote with Hank Hugues and Michael Worth. Here’s the synopsis: Johansen (Lundgren) is an aging detective, whose outdated policing methods have given the department a recent public relations problem. To save his job, he is sent to Mexico to extradite a female witness to the murders of two DEA agents. Once there, he finds...
- 12/15/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: Warner Bros has won a week long auction for Calamity Hustle, the action comedy that will star Ryan Reynolds and Channing Tatum. Adam & Aaron Nee wrote the script, and they will direct. All the studios were in on this, but it came down to Amazon, Netflix and Warner Bros. Led by production chiefs Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy, Warner Bros stepped up for the kind of star-driven movie that fueled the studio’s fortunes back in the day.
The spec is likened in tone to the mismatched buddy actioner like Lethal Weapon, and the hope is to launch a franchise. Reynolds will play a cop who is estranged from his low level criminal brother (Tatum). They grew up on the wrong side of the tracks, and went in the opposite direction. When bro is implicated as part of a diamond heist, the cop must hunt him down before those he ripped off.
The spec is likened in tone to the mismatched buddy actioner like Lethal Weapon, and the hope is to launch a franchise. Reynolds will play a cop who is estranged from his low level criminal brother (Tatum). They grew up on the wrong side of the tracks, and went in the opposite direction. When bro is implicated as part of a diamond heist, the cop must hunt him down before those he ripped off.
- 12/15/2023
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
When you have a script that promises to team Ryan Reynolds and Channing Tatum , do you let it linger on a slush pile? Of course you don't! And so several companies, including Warner Bros., Amazon and Netflix are all submitting hefty bods to secure the new potential project. Calamity Hustle also has writer/directors Aaron and Adam Nee, who last worked together (and with Tatum) on :a[The Lost City]{href='https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/the-lost-city/' }.
The story, according to The Hollywood Reporter, concerns a down-on-his-luck former Los Angeles detective-turned-private investigator who, after being shaken down by a vicious crime lord, must track down his estranged brother who is responsible for interfering with a diamond heist.
Even if one of the companies secures the deal, this wouldn't immediately leap into production as the script reportedly requires a little polishing – and you know both stars will want to have input.
The story, according to The Hollywood Reporter, concerns a down-on-his-luck former Los Angeles detective-turned-private investigator who, after being shaken down by a vicious crime lord, must track down his estranged brother who is responsible for interfering with a diamond heist.
Even if one of the companies secures the deal, this wouldn't immediately leap into production as the script reportedly requires a little polishing – and you know both stars will want to have input.
- 12/4/2023
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
THR has reported that Ryan Reynolds and Channing Tatum are set to join forces for Calamity Hustle, a new action comedy which will be written and directed by the Nee Brothers.
A heated bidding war for Calamity Hustle is currently underway, with Warner Bros., Netflix, and Amazon all in the running to snag the project. According to THR’s sources, the film follows a “down-on-his-luck former Los Angeles detective-turned-private investigator who, after being shaken down by a vicious crime lord, must track down his estranged brother who is responsible for interfering with a diamond heist.” In addition to starring in the film, Ryan Reynolds and Channing Tatum will also produce through their respective production banners, Maximum Effort and Free Association.
Warner Bros. is reportedly offering somewhere around $20 million for each actor, while Netflix and Amazon are both offering $50 million to be split however the producers want. One offer for the...
A heated bidding war for Calamity Hustle is currently underway, with Warner Bros., Netflix, and Amazon all in the running to snag the project. According to THR’s sources, the film follows a “down-on-his-luck former Los Angeles detective-turned-private investigator who, after being shaken down by a vicious crime lord, must track down his estranged brother who is responsible for interfering with a diamond heist.” In addition to starring in the film, Ryan Reynolds and Channing Tatum will also produce through their respective production banners, Maximum Effort and Free Association.
Warner Bros. is reportedly offering somewhere around $20 million for each actor, while Netflix and Amazon are both offering $50 million to be split however the producers want. One offer for the...
- 12/2/2023
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
A bidding war is currently underway for an action comedy that teams Ryan Reynolds and Channing Tatum as wayward brothers.
Legacy studio Warner Bros. and streaming goliaths Amazon and Netflix are in the midst of trying to acquire Calamity Hustle, a new feature project from Aaron and Adam Nee, the sibling team that found success with their 2022 sleeper hit The Lost City.
The Nee brothers are writing the script and are directing. Reynolds and Tatum would star and produce via their respective banners, Maximum Effort and Free Association. Also producing is Kevin Walsh, who is currently in the awards season mix with Napoleon, as are the Nees via their banner Persons Attempting.
While the number of studios involved may not be high, the price point is steep. According to sources, Warners went in with offers in the $20 million ballpark for each actor. Netflix and Amazon, meanwhile, both went in with...
Legacy studio Warner Bros. and streaming goliaths Amazon and Netflix are in the midst of trying to acquire Calamity Hustle, a new feature project from Aaron and Adam Nee, the sibling team that found success with their 2022 sleeper hit The Lost City.
The Nee brothers are writing the script and are directing. Reynolds and Tatum would star and produce via their respective banners, Maximum Effort and Free Association. Also producing is Kevin Walsh, who is currently in the awards season mix with Napoleon, as are the Nees via their banner Persons Attempting.
While the number of studios involved may not be high, the price point is steep. According to sources, Warners went in with offers in the $20 million ballpark for each actor. Netflix and Amazon, meanwhile, both went in with...
- 12/1/2023
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
1990 was a peak year for Van Damage. The Muscles from Brussels was on the way to the big time after Bloodsport and Kickboxer (which made our list of the Best Fighting Movies) proved to be huge moneymakers at the box office. But, Jean-Claude Van Damme was different from some of his contemporaries because he was a hearthrob and a prime butt-kicker. His 1990 movie Lionheart was bought for distribution by Universal, paving the way to his breaking into mainstream studio work. But, before he could jump on that gravy train, he had one more movie left to make on his Cannon movie deal – but ironically, the company itself would not release the film theatrically due to its waning fortunes, with this being Van Damme’s first major studio release after MGM opted to distribute it. The movie? Death Warrant!
In this one, Jcvd plays a cop named Burke, who, after putting...
In this one, Jcvd plays a cop named Burke, who, after putting...
- 11/26/2023
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Masters of the Universe was one of three big-budget 1987 movies that sunk Cannon Pictures (the other two were Over the Top and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace). It was supposed to be their version of Star Wars, boasting a significant budget (for Cannon) and high production values. It was based on the toys and cartoon series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe by Mattel, but the film had a very rocky road to the big screen. While it’s now considered a camp classic, thanks mainly to the involvement of Dolph Lundgren, at the time, many thought that his performance helped tank the movie. He almost ended up being dubbed in the final cut.
Indeed, in the documentary Toy Masters (excerpted by THR), Mattel executives found Lundgren’s accent unintelligible, and director Gary Goddard wanted him dubbed. “We actually did bring in a few actors to loop test,...
Indeed, in the documentary Toy Masters (excerpted by THR), Mattel executives found Lundgren’s accent unintelligible, and director Gary Goddard wanted him dubbed. “We actually did bring in a few actors to loop test,...
- 11/19/2023
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Former head of drama development at Disney’s 20th Television Michelle Mendelovitz has been named head of Mattel Television Studios.
In her new role, Mendelovitz will oversee the development, production, and distribution of Mattel’s slate of episodic content on broadcast and streaming globally.
She will report to Mattel executive vice president and chief franchise officer Josh Silverman.
Currently, Mattel Television Studios produces animated and live-action series and specials based on its popular IP including Barbie, Thomas & Friends, Hot Wheels, Fireman Sam, Polly Pocket, Barney, Masters of the Universe, Monster High and Pictionary. Per the studio, it has premiered 12 series and specials this year.
“Michelle is a powerful creative leader with a wealth of experience working with top studios and creators to make innovative, quality content across genres and platforms,” Mattel chairman and CEO Ynon Kreiz said. “We are excited for her to join at a time of such momentum for the company,...
In her new role, Mendelovitz will oversee the development, production, and distribution of Mattel’s slate of episodic content on broadcast and streaming globally.
She will report to Mattel executive vice president and chief franchise officer Josh Silverman.
Currently, Mattel Television Studios produces animated and live-action series and specials based on its popular IP including Barbie, Thomas & Friends, Hot Wheels, Fireman Sam, Polly Pocket, Barney, Masters of the Universe, Monster High and Pictionary. Per the studio, it has premiered 12 series and specials this year.
“Michelle is a powerful creative leader with a wealth of experience working with top studios and creators to make innovative, quality content across genres and platforms,” Mattel chairman and CEO Ynon Kreiz said. “We are excited for her to join at a time of such momentum for the company,...
- 11/16/2023
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
There is an update about the long-awaited live-action Masters of the Universe project.
A live-adaptation based on the blond barbarian, popularized as part of Mattel toys, is in serious talks with Amazon MGM Studios from Adam and Aaron Nee, the writing and directing team behind The Lost City, via Variety.
Conversations are taking place with Amazon after Netflix dropped a planned version of the Nee Brothers film in July.
Keep reading to find out more…
Netflix spent nearly $30 million in development for the project, which was meant to star Kyle Allen. The streamer walked when the budget, originally set for more than $200 million, could not be meaningfully reduced, via Variety.
The Amazon talks are “tenuous, another source cautions,” but if the studio moves forward, it will need to close new deals with the Nees for a script, and to direct.
Kyle is “still in the mix” to star as He-Man.
A live-adaptation based on the blond barbarian, popularized as part of Mattel toys, is in serious talks with Amazon MGM Studios from Adam and Aaron Nee, the writing and directing team behind The Lost City, via Variety.
Conversations are taking place with Amazon after Netflix dropped a planned version of the Nee Brothers film in July.
Keep reading to find out more…
Netflix spent nearly $30 million in development for the project, which was meant to star Kyle Allen. The streamer walked when the budget, originally set for more than $200 million, could not be meaningfully reduced, via Variety.
The Amazon talks are “tenuous, another source cautions,” but if the studio moves forward, it will need to close new deals with the Nees for a script, and to direct.
Kyle is “still in the mix” to star as He-Man.
- 11/14/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
With the long-running success of the ‘Transformers’ films and the recent success of “Barbie,” films based on toy lines are all the rage. But even still, the people trying to make a “Masters of the Universe” film are struggling to find a home for their blockbuster. Netflix spent $30 million developing the film, only to shutter the project and send the filmmakers packing, after it was clear the studio wouldn’t spend the money necessary for production.
Continue reading ‘Masters Of The Universe’: Amazon In Discussions To Take Over Development Of The Canceled Live-Action Film at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Masters Of The Universe’: Amazon In Discussions To Take Over Development Of The Canceled Live-Action Film at The Playlist.
- 11/14/2023
- by Charles Barfield
- The Playlist
Netflix has been developing a live-action Masters of the Universe movie for some time, but it was revealed this summer that the streaming service had scrapped the project. However, Variety reports that the Masters of the Universe movie could find a new home at Amazon MGM Studios.
The potential move to Amazon isn’t a sure thing, as a source told Variety that the talks are “tenuous.” Should they go forward, Amazon would need to close new deals with Adam and Aaron Nee to write and direct the Masters of the Universe movie. Kyle Allen (A Haunting in Venice) is still attached to star in the movie as He-Man.
Related Masters of the Universe: Revolution teaser trailer previews the next chapter of Kevin Smith’s Netflix series
As for why the project fell apart at Netflix, it apparently all came down to the budget. After spending close to $30 million on development costs,...
The potential move to Amazon isn’t a sure thing, as a source told Variety that the talks are “tenuous.” Should they go forward, Amazon would need to close new deals with Adam and Aaron Nee to write and direct the Masters of the Universe movie. Kyle Allen (A Haunting in Venice) is still attached to star in the movie as He-Man.
Related Masters of the Universe: Revolution teaser trailer previews the next chapter of Kevin Smith’s Netflix series
As for why the project fell apart at Netflix, it apparently all came down to the budget. After spending close to $30 million on development costs,...
- 11/14/2023
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
Amazon MGM Studios is eyeing a live-action Masters of the Universe film, based on the popular ’80s toys from Mattel, Deadline can confirm. While in very early talks, the project would come over to the streamer from Netflix, where it fell apart over the summer.
Believed to be continuing on with the project are Adam and Aaron Nee (The Lost City), the writer-directors who’d been at work on it for Netflix. Then, there’s Kyle Allen, who had been set for the starring role of Prince Adam aka He-Man. Among those set to produce is Todd Black.
Masters of the Universe centers on the orphan Adam, who comes to discover he’s a prince destined to save a faraway land from the threat of the evil wizard Skeletor. The IP has most recently been mined for a trio of animated series — She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, Masters of the Universe: Revelation...
Believed to be continuing on with the project are Adam and Aaron Nee (The Lost City), the writer-directors who’d been at work on it for Netflix. Then, there’s Kyle Allen, who had been set for the starring role of Prince Adam aka He-Man. Among those set to produce is Todd Black.
Masters of the Universe centers on the orphan Adam, who comes to discover he’s a prince destined to save a faraway land from the threat of the evil wizard Skeletor. The IP has most recently been mined for a trio of animated series — She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, Masters of the Universe: Revelation...
- 11/14/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
It looks like Amazon MGM Studios has He-Man’s power sword as the studio is in early talks to produce a live-action “Masters of the Universe” film, according to a insider with knowledge of the project.
Netflix put the property into turnaround after investing $30 million in its development. The project has been bouncing around Hollywood from Mattel and producer Todd Black for over 15 years, with Warner Bros. and Sony, as well as filmmakers like Jon M. Chu and McG temporarily involved.
This recent attempt was shelved due to concerns over the budget, which reportedly ran over $200 million and was shut down even after the filmmakers allegedly brought the costs below $180 million.
This latest version had Kyle Allen — still officially attached — starring as He-Man with Adam and Aaron Nee (“The Lost City”) set to direct.
Should Amazon move forward with the project, they will need to negotiate new agreements with the...
Netflix put the property into turnaround after investing $30 million in its development. The project has been bouncing around Hollywood from Mattel and producer Todd Black for over 15 years, with Warner Bros. and Sony, as well as filmmakers like Jon M. Chu and McG temporarily involved.
This recent attempt was shelved due to concerns over the budget, which reportedly ran over $200 million and was shut down even after the filmmakers allegedly brought the costs below $180 million.
This latest version had Kyle Allen — still officially attached — starring as He-Man with Adam and Aaron Nee (“The Lost City”) set to direct.
Should Amazon move forward with the project, they will need to negotiate new agreements with the...
- 11/14/2023
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
In “Masters of the Universe,” He-Man’s nemesis is the evil wizard Skeletor. In Hollywood, his greatest threat has been a list of studio partners that have sidelined him from the big screen for nearly two decades.
The blond barbarian, based on a popular set of Mattel toys, may finally win the day. Amazon MGM Studios is in serious talks to mount a live-action “Masters of the Universe” movie from Adam and Aaron Nee, the writing and directing team behind “The Lost City,” according to multiple insiders. Conversations are taking place with Amazon after Netflix dropped a planned version of the Nee brothers film in July.
Netflix spent nearly $30 million in development costs over two years for the project, which was meant to star Kyle Allen (“A Haunting in Venice”). The streamer walked away when the tentpole’s budget, originally set for more than $200 million, could not be meaningfully reduced.
The blond barbarian, based on a popular set of Mattel toys, may finally win the day. Amazon MGM Studios is in serious talks to mount a live-action “Masters of the Universe” movie from Adam and Aaron Nee, the writing and directing team behind “The Lost City,” according to multiple insiders. Conversations are taking place with Amazon after Netflix dropped a planned version of the Nee brothers film in July.
Netflix spent nearly $30 million in development costs over two years for the project, which was meant to star Kyle Allen (“A Haunting in Venice”). The streamer walked away when the tentpole’s budget, originally set for more than $200 million, could not be meaningfully reduced.
- 11/14/2023
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Kevin Smith’s Netflix animated series Masters of the Universe: Revelation was envisioned as a follow-up to the 1980s show He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, and now Revelation is getting a follow-up of its own. Smith and Netflix are set to bring us the sequel series Masters of the Universe: Revolution sometime in January 2024 – and the streaming service has now unveiled a teaser trailer for the show! You can check it out in the embed above.
Masters of the Universe: Revelation viewers may remember that when Eternia was running low on magic, villain characters Tri-Klops, Trap Jaw, Whiplash, and Blast-Attak became part of a technology-focused Motherboard cult, where followers were turned into cyborgs. Picking up where Revelation left off, Revolution is an all-new story that focuses on the classic He-Man vs. Skeletor rivalry in a way audiences have never seen before. It’s technology up against magic as...
Masters of the Universe: Revelation viewers may remember that when Eternia was running low on magic, villain characters Tri-Klops, Trap Jaw, Whiplash, and Blast-Attak became part of a technology-focused Motherboard cult, where followers were turned into cyborgs. Picking up where Revelation left off, Revolution is an all-new story that focuses on the classic He-Man vs. Skeletor rivalry in a way audiences have never seen before. It’s technology up against magic as...
- 11/13/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Some cliche somewhere said that ‘a picture is worth a thousand words.’ This has proven to be the case for me and especially when it comes to fan art. I have always sought out great fan art and have wanted to share it with as many people as possible. “Awesome Art We’ve Found Around The Net” is the outlet for that passion. In this column, I will showcase the kick-ass artwork of some great artists, with the hopes that these artists get the attention they deserve. That’s the aim. If you have any questions or comments, or even suggestions of art or other great artists, feel free to contact me at any time at theodorebond@joblo.com.
Back To The Future by Loopydave
Batman by LRusso72
Demon Slayer by nna
Drive by Krittee Yampraipirom
Killers of the Flower Moon by NRib Design
The Man With No Name by...
Back To The Future by Loopydave
Batman by LRusso72
Demon Slayer by nna
Drive by Krittee Yampraipirom
Killers of the Flower Moon by NRib Design
The Man With No Name by...
- 11/11/2023
- by Theodore Bond
- JoBlo.com
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