He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (2021–2022) User Reviews

A Reboot We Didn't Need, But It's OK.

[solrhn · 7/10 · 17 September 2021]

Because it's a complete reboot, I'm giving it a lot of slack. If I were a kid today, I would probably love it. As an adult who grew up with the original, it's a bit disappointing.

They do give reasonable story lines to some of the changes they made, if a little cliché at times. I don't know that the cyberpunk feel is right for the property. It's grown on me over the 10 episodes, but it's still a little weird. It really bothers me that He-Man skips leg day. EVERY DAY IS LEG DAY! And the wannabe "imagine dragons" theme song is just awful.

Also, making the shift from a hero-focused story to an ensemble team story, somewhat reminiscent of power rangers dynamics, feels odd.

This is not at all the He-Man I grew up with, and it's not how I would have done a reboot. I don't believe we needed a hard reboot like this. The 200X series was the right way to do a reboot (and it had things I didn't love as well...) But it's not terrible, and it's orders of magnitude better than Kevin Smith's travesty.

Not as bad as you'd think

[reichert-medien · 6/10 · 16 September 2021]

Despite all the changes to the original He-Man this is not as bad as the awful "Revelation". This is a complete new version of MOTU and even as someone who grew up with classic He-Man I can accept that.

It was fun to watch and I don't mind the changes they made to the story, but I don't like what they did to the look of the characters. If they would actually resemble the classic MOTU characters I would like this show a lot, but I don't like the new look at all. Only He-Man, Skeletor and Battle-Cut have resemblance to what we know and loved.

Maybe todays kids like this - I don't know. We'll see how much toys they sell with this.

But unlike "Revelation" this is less of an insult to old fans, because it is willingly directed to a new audience.

That being said: Fun watchable kids show, with hardly any resemblance to the classic He-Man characters.

Unfortunately the title song is weak and not very catchy.

Not the He-Man we know, but still fun in it's own right.

[kyphe · 7/10 · 17 September 2021]

First things first. This is way better than Kevin Smiths revelation! I can actually see myself watching the entire season after watching the first 5 eps.

It will not appeal to everyone, it is clearly aimed at a younger audience with it's animation style and its characterisations, but the dialog is wonderful and the animation fluid and dynamic.

I found myself liking the characters quite quickly which is something Kevin Smith never managed. Some of the the female characters are a tiny bit over-macho as if the things we would call a boy dumb or possibly suicidal for make a girl appear strong, but don't get me wrong, compared to a lot of what we have been getting lately this is surprisingly balanced. I never felt like I was being beaten over the head with a woke bible at any point.

The aesthetic grew on me, a bit like clone wars 3d did and the vehicle designs are pretty cool. Some good toys coming for Christmas no doubt.

My biggest annoyance was that cringer constantly forgets he has teeth, you will see what I mean.

Overall once I got over the initial shock of just how different it was to the established He-Man universe It managed to put a smile on my face.

Thumbs up from me.

Give it a chance. Different doesn't mean bad.

[AlphaDovah · 19 September 2021]

Here we have an actual reboot with some tone shifts and reimagined points from the original done in an enjoyable and interesting way. It's just as cheesy as the original would seem to most now, buts it's fun and the characters are likable. It was almost immediately charming for me despite going into it with a negative impression of the trailer and freshly stinging opinion of Revelations. The animation will be the biggest obstacle for the shows popularity and for new viewers; it comes across as outlandish in its exaggerations and is obviously meant to also appeal to younger audiences. The action and transformation sequences still look nice and are appropriately flashy. It grows on you. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe also runs a fantastic cast with every voice feeling natural and appealing. A special shout to Ben Diskin who does an incredible and hilarious job as Skeletor. (weighted score: 8/10 and a solid 7/10 all things considered)

Selling the franchise to a new young audience...

[paul_haakonsen · 6/10 · 19 September 2021]

Granted, when I saw the trailer for this second new 2021 series from Netflix which brought back to life my childhood hero He-Man, I have to admit that I wasn't immediately sold, nor were I particularly thrilled. Why? Well, the art style just seemed to be aiming at a very young audience here. But still, it being a "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" series, of course I opted to watch it.

Initially, I wasn't particularly swayed as I started watching this new 2021 series, but I gave it the benefit of the doubt and kept watching all 10 episodes of season one. And I have to say that while this 2021 version of "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" definitely was nowhere near close to its source material, then it actually started to grow on me.

The story told in this new series is reminiscent to the old classics, but then again, it is totally changed, for better or worse. The storyline was fast paced, which was actually a good thing, and I have to say that the storyline, if you totally ignore everything you've learned from the 1980s or 2000s series, then it is actually entertaining enough.

And they made some very radical changes to the lore and the characters. Without delving too much into detail, then some of these changes were not sitting particularly well with me as it totally ignored already established characters, backgrounds and lore. Sure, I get that this new 2021 series is aimed at a brand new audience, but come on, changing things around like that is most likely not going to go well with the older fans - such as myself, for example.

Visually, then the art and drawing style used in this 2021 new series is something of an acquired taste, because it definitely is unique. Sure, there were some charm and appeal to the art style, and it was beautifully drawn, but it was just too chunky and bulky.

The 2021 series "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" is watchable and entertaining for what it is, but this is not going to be a long-run pleaser for the older fans of the franchise.

Essentially then the 2021 "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" series is a re-make or re-invention of the franchise that we didn't really need, and thus feels fully and wholly unnecessary.

My rating of the 2021 Netflix series "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" lands on a six out of ten stars. It actually turned out to be better and more entertaining than what the trailer initially lead to show. I was impressed, sure, but certain things changed just doesn't sit well with me.

Not He-Man, but it gets better

[007Waffles · 7/10 · 18 September 2021]

Having grown up watching the original, I didn't care for this show at first. I didn't like the first few episodes because they were more Troll Hunters and Clone Wars than Masters of the Universe. I think it wasn't until around the 4th episode that I started to like the show. It finally felt like MOTU, but in a different universe.

I recommend giving this show a chance. Battle Cat is the best part of the show. The whinny, insecure He-Man, not so much.

THIS IS AN INSULT!

[hoodling · 1/10 · 19 September 2021]

I've read the other reviews, and I see people praise this garbage for being good for kids, an interesting new take, not woke, and so forth... all of which is dead wrong. This is an insult to one of the greatest shows of my childhood. Please stop looking for good things to say about it, because this is the worst possibly thing that could have been done with He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. Don't let Netflix get away with this. In no way, shape or form is this what I, a fan of the old cartoons, wanted to see. This show is awful! Rather than destroying what people love, they could have just made something new and left He-Man out of it. Kids today don't know, nor care about He-Man. The only people who do are people who grew up watching the old cartoons. I'd much rather show kids the old cartoons than this disgusting amalgamation of polygons. The art style is cheap and ugly, and that's the best thing I could possibly say about it.

Surprisingly good - and I'm a 43yo classic MoTU fan

[peterfrench78 · 9/10 · 28 September 2021]

OK, so firstly yes this is significantly different to the 80's cartoon - different tone, different art style a new take on the lore - and a "twist" given to many of the classic characters we know and love. But... and hear me out... its actually pretty good. I'm not ashamed to say I found myself very open to some of the changes they have made. Heck I even found myself enjoying some of the character spins that had been made and appreciating some of the surprisingly good writing and character design which resulted in a number of characters appearing (on the surface) to be quite different from their classic counterparts, however on closer inspection, managing to actually stay brilliantly close to they spirit of them. Teela for example... a beloved character in the original, a fierce warrior, a loyal friend, focused on weapons, hand to hand combat and a master tactician on the battle-field - outspoken and ferocious. Here, she couldn't be more different in some ways - a sorceress, a master of spells and magic - and yet at her core, she has been written very much in the style of Teela. Fierce, loyal, fearless, outspoken, smart - so many of the traits we associate with the character that in the end, I genuinely felt I could forgive - and even embrace - the way she has been changed in this version of the tale. Its not perfect and its not going to be everyone's cup-of-tea - but I had a lot of fun watching this. More than I thought I would and more than Revelations. Give this a try and keep an open mind and you may be surprised.

Reluctant but glad I watched

[KalpeshHemant4 · 7/10 · 11 October 2021]

I wasn't going to watch this version, the trailer certainly did NOT help as I thought it would certainly ruin my childhood nostalgia.

I however read a few reviews and noticed some said they gave it a chance and actually enjoyed it.

So I watched this Netflix series and I liked it. The visuals are absolutely gorgeous, the plot, characters and premise inviting and altogether it's really well made. I guess more a prequel to the original 80's cartoon?

The reimagined modernity of it all and creativity input, work here to bring this beloved series to newer generations!

I highly recommend this version of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe.

I look forward to season 2.

So unnecessary

[amethystfelix-64249 · 4/10 · 2 April 2022]

Didn't Netflix just make another sort of He-man related cartoon? This series seems so unnecessary and the title being the exact same as the Funimation series along with character designs that look like they're made to advertise toys makes it no better than the 80's cartoon. I also hate when reboots change characters or add new ones for diversity points.

A NEW vision for He-Man!

[R2Fan · 10/10 · 11 October 2021]

Comparing this new series to any MOTU that's come before is nonsense. This is a new vision, geared towards today's kids. If you don't fall into that demographic, it hasn't been made primarily with you in mind. That doesn't mean, however, that you can't enjoy it; I've been a MOTU fan and collector since before the original show came out, when for a brief moment there were just the toys and mini comics. So I've seen everything MOTU come and go.

This show is the freshest take since 1982 (which isn't saying a great deal, as everything prior really only built on that original premise, as much as I love most of it).

The animation is modern and dynamic, which some choose to criticise as "Fortnite"-esque. Styles come and go, this is one of today's styles, simple as that. The story is engaging and includes a ton of nods to previous iterations of the brand if you know what you're looking for. There are some genuinely funny moments, usually provided by Skeletor, who is far more threatening and scary here than he's ever been. The title song won't be to everyone's taste; kids seem to like it, so it was the right choice. The score, however is fantastic, providing the epic sound MOTU needs.

Try to ignore the naysayers who just want a rehash of the wonderful 80's show, and go in with an open mind and a child's sense of wonder (we all still have that, no matter how deep it may be buried) and you'll see it's great fun.

This is a new generation, and this IS He-Man.

good show for todays kids

[Mynameisroman · 7/10 · 17 September 2021]

This show is a complete reboot! So if you are a kid of the 80s you probably won't like this show much. But if you are a small kid right now you actually might like this show because in its core its a good show. Buts its far away from what we knew from the 80s. The visual style needs some adjusting. The story is alright. Season one is an origin story how they became who they are. My main issue is that here almost everyone is some sort of super hero or super villain. Its clearly a product of today so its slighty woke but it doesn't interfere with the story. I might watch another season with my son if he likes it. But i would not buy toys based on this show :-)

WTF even is this?

[les-mcgowan · 2/10 · 19 September 2021]

The names are the same. There's a sword and a cat. Animation is overly processed. The tone is more sitcom than action/adventure. Granted, I expected some updates after 35+ years, but there's barely anything left here. The Transformers: Siege series was updated and Prime is a whiny emo kid, but it's a faithful representation. This... not so much. Pass.

I'll pass

[mattp8202 · 25 May 2022]

This maybe good to a newer generation I'm not sure but after just seeing the animation and look of the characters I decided to not even watch an episode. Looks like a lazy but flashy attempt at a reboot.

Way better than Revelations.

[jascoward · 7/10 · 21 November 2021]

The animation takes a minute to adjust to but the story is wonderfully told.

They get a 10 out of 10 from me when it comes to the effort made to capture the spirit of the OG.

Plus, its actually great for kids.

He-Man for a new generation!

[thejokerwholaughs · 9/10 · 17 September 2021]

After the disappointing and divisive "MOTU Revelations" earlier in the year I was certainly apprehensive about this new take on the He-Man franchise.

The art style and re-working of certain characters concerned me as an "OG fan" even if it was clear this version would be aimed at a much younger audience.

But not only was this show a hit with my 7 year old son, but I found myself really enjoying it too!

As is quite often the case with most nostalgic properties and comic book adaptations, there seems to be a current trend of "subverting" expectations, gender and sexuality politics being shoehorned in and well, just changes for the sake of making changes.

What I loved about this show is I really didn't feel any of that. Yes Ram Man has been gender swapped and Teela and The Sorceress (The Eldress now) have been race swapped, but I honestly felt these changes served to strengthen the show instead of detracting from it and brought some more balance to the cast of characters which in this day and age can only help to attract that all important new generation of fans.

The main reason I liked this show way more than Kevin Smith's effort was that although the emphasis is on teamwork and family, He-Man is still front and centre in his own show as he should be.

He was proactive, caring and above all else GOOD.

I'm sure this version of MOTU will also be divisive among the core fanbase but I believe the spirit of the original was upheld and properly respected.

I hope this show is a hit with kids and we can all enjoy more He-Man in many years to come.

We have the power.

Imagine a He-Man Show with Basic Character Development

[BabelAlexandria · 7/10 · 31 October 2021]

It's easy if you try. Imagine a He-Man show with some form of plot development. Imagine a He-Man show with a little bit of backstory (ok, not a lot). Imagine a He-Man show with more diversity and female leads. And robots. Imagine a He-Man show with a good opening theme song (ok, keep thinking on that). Imagine a He-Man show with self-deprecating, ironic, hipster humor. Imagine a He-Man show with cool cliff hangers so you want to watch the next episode right away. Our kids don't have to, and now, child of the 80s, neither do you. Netflix has delivered all this and more with their new remake of the (classic?) show. Yet more proof of how terrible children's programming was when the originals aired.

And despite all the improvements, my kids don't even think it's very good. They hated the "buff" version of He-Man. I think the idea was to make this a more positive version of Bruce Banner's transformation into the Hulk, with Prince Adam's power-up based on love for his friends, with whom he shares his power ("we" have the power this time), rather than rage. But my kids didn't make that connection!

THIS IS NOT HE-MAN

[gavinjary · 1/10 · 13 March 2022]

Do yourself a favour and just watch the originals.

Why do production companies insist on paying to use the names of successful tv shows and then making a completely different program that only has faint suggestions of the original.

I'll tell you why, because if they didnt the show wouldnt even get produced.

This is not He-Man.

Fantastic For Next Generation

[dommyshell · 10/10 · 17 September 2021]

I really enjoyed it, its not the 80s He-man, I am OK with that, as it 2021, I am sure the current generation will love it.

Decent animation, but mostly designed for young kids :-(

[stevebondi · 6/10 · 25 September 2021]

Even though I found it a little more entertaining than the other He-Man series that recently came to Netflix, the characters, dialog, and even most of the action was too geared towards young kids :-(

I'd rate it in minus if possible

[nidahali · 1/10 · 10 March 2022]

This series has totally ruined the childhood memories I had for He-Man. Why would they create such abnormally weird characters. Very disappointed!

Also they have changed the storyline but that's no surprise as a lot of remakes are doing this.

First MOTU reboot that potentially has some future

[crejk · 8/10 · 19 September 2021]

First of all, I'm 40 years old, and grew up loving the original show, toys and comics. It all stopped when they made The New Adventures of He-Man. I liked the 2002. Reboot, but mostly in nostalgic reasons. It didn't had the whole original atmosphere in it to bring new kids to like it. Beside the visual style, everything was wrong with Kevin Smit's version. I have 6 year old kid that couldn't manage to watch even the first episode of MOTU: Revelation.

This show is my kids new favourite one. I personaly at first had isues with the new cyber punk style, but the writing was great and they mostly made hits with reimagining the characters. The comic elements were on spot, at least for the younger audience.

Most important thing is that this reboot is the most likable for kids of all last 3 combined. For shows like this target audience should be 5 to 10 years old, because this is the only way to keep the franchise alive. The ones that complain are mostly the guys my age, from which most of them stopped watching cartoons decades ago.

From all 80's shows that were made after toy collections, that are still alive with new kids watching and toys and merchendise still selling, only Transformers and TMNT are left, because they always reimagined them for the new generation of kids.

I hope this reboot will save the franchise, and I'm sorry that kids can't vote on this page, because the average vote would be much higher.

Clone Wars-sters of the Universe?

[taucoin-191-743157 · 7/10 · 20 September 2021]

Love the animation style but it looks too much like Clone Wars. It's made by the same effects company so it was a weird choice to not style it differently than Clone Wars. It looks great all the same, the show itself is fine, definitely better than the Kevin Smith one.

Why call it He-Man?

[asterblasterth · 1/10 · 17 September 2021]

This was so generic you could have given it any other title even an own title. There's not much that links it to the original. It has more of a Trollhunter vibe in it than a He-Man vibe. If you're not familiar with the original He-Man franchise then I guess it could work. But if you're looking for a new interpretation of the original He-Man then give this one a pass. It's more for the 5 to 10 year old demographic.

Maybe you should give Masters of the Universe: Revelation a chance but I am not very positive about that one either.