Masters of the Universe promised to be He-Man's definitive return to the big screen. With Nicholas Galitzine and Jared Leto leading the cast and a budget that reportedly reached nearly $200 million, the adaptation arrived in theaters with high expectations. However, the commercial reality was very different: the film grossed just $114 million worldwide.
The data now takes on new relevance because its director, Travis Knight, has broken his silence on what happened in recent statements to The Hollywood Reporter. The filmmaker acknowledges his frustration with how the release was handled, just as the film is experiencing a very different second life on streaming.
A box office failure that contrasts with its success on Prime Video
Despite the stumble in theaters, Masters of the Universe found a much more favorable response when it arrived on Prime Video. There, it remained the most-watched production for five consecutive weeks, a clear sign that there is an audience interested in Eternia, even if they prefer to watch it from home rather than pay for a movie ticket.
That disconnect between theatrical performance and streaming appeal is precisely what has generated the most controversy inside and outside the industry.
Travis Knight: It deserved a better fate
In his conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Travis Knight was clear when assessing how the film's distribution was prioritized. As he explained, for Amazon MGM Studios, the streaming run was much more relevant than the theatrical release, something he admits he was not entirely clear about when he embarked on the project.
The director stated that he hoped the trust placed in the creative team would translate into a cinematic result in line with his expectations, which ultimately did not happen. Even so, he claimed to have made peace with what happened, acknowledging that the film deserved better luck at the box office.
From Amazon, sources consulted by The Hollywood Reporter defended the strategy by pointing out that the company values the complementary role between theatrical exhibition and streaming when greenlighting its projects. An explanation that, while logical from a business perspective, still clashes with the experience of a filmmaker who has just directed a blockbuster of such scale.
Will there be a Masters of the Universe sequel?
The big question left in the air is whether the appeal on Prime Video will be enough for Amazon MGM Studios to decide to move forward with a second installment. The film itself left the path open for a continuation, although there is currently no official confirmation regarding Masters of the Universe 2.
In another interview, this time with ScreenRant, Travis Knight spoke about the possibility of returning to Eternia. The director was enthusiastic about the experience on set, although he insisted that the decision to continue does not depend on him or his team.
Knight explained that he thoroughly enjoyed the filming process with his team and that, if the franchise's destiny calls for more installments, they would be delighted to provide them. However, he remarked that such decisions are beyond his control and that the only thing a filmmaker can do is pour themselves completely into each project, hoping it connects with the intended audience.
She-Ra, the big asset for a possible second part
Although the story of Masters of the Universe closes with its own conclusion, those responsible left a particularly striking door open for the future. The post-credits scene introduced She-Ra, played by Lauren Saliu, laying the groundwork for the character to gain prominence in a hypothetical sequel.
The actress herself had already shown herself open to continuing in the role, highlighting what it would mean for her to be able to apply the skills developed during the character's preparation. Saliu assured she is willing to continue if she is counted on, although she also made it clear that she would respect the decision if another performer were chosen.
The arrival of She-Ra would open up new narrative possibilities for the franchise, allowing it to go beyond the classic confrontation between He-Man and Skeletor. For now, the future of Eternia on the big screen depends on a decision that Amazon has not yet made public.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Masters of the Universe gross at the box office?
The film grossed $114 million worldwide, a figure considered low against a budget that reportedly reached $200 million.
How well did Masters of the Universe do on Prime Video?
After its theatrical run, the film became the most-watched on Prime Video for five consecutive weeks.
What did Travis Knight say about the film’s release?
The director expressed his frustration because, as he explained, Amazon prioritized streaming performance over the theatrical run, something he did not expect when starting the project.
Will there be a Masters of the Universe sequel?
There is no official confirmation. Travis Knight was open to directing a second installment, but clarified that the decision depends on Amazon MGM Studios.
What role could She-Ra have in a sequel?
The post-credits scene introduced She-Ra, played by Lauren Saliu, as a potential protagonist for a future installment, something the actress herself was willing to play.
Who stars in Masters of the Universe?
The cast is led by Nicholas Galitzine and Jared Leto, under the direction of Travis Knight.
