Masters of the Universe Falters in Theaters, Can Prime Video Save Its Future?

 Amazon MGM Studios / Sony Pictures

 Amazon MGM Studios / Sony Pictures
  • Primary Subject: Masters of the Universe (2026 Film)
  • Key Update: Despite underperforming at the box office, a streaming-first strategy on Amazon Prime Video and director interest keep sequel hopes alive.
  • Status: Confirmed (Box Office Status) / Unconfirmed (Sequel Development)
  • Last Verified: June 19, 2026
  • Quick Answer: A Masters of the Universe sequel remains possible if the film achieves strong viewership and long-term engagement when it debuts on Amazon Prime Video.

After 40 years, Masters of the Universe returned to the big screen, but it seems not everyone is fond of it. 

The reboot has received mixed reviews and is also performing poorly at the box office. But as it is set to stream on Amazon Prime Video in a few months, could the streamer help revive its future and spark a sequel?

Why a Masters of the Universe Sequel Is Still Possible?

Masters of the Universe
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Credit: Amazon MGM Studios / Sony Pictures
Masters of the Universe

A box office success plays a major role in getting a movie a sequel. Sure, Masters of the Universe is a box office bomb, only grossing $89.9 million worldwide against its $170–200 million budget.

But this failure doesn’t necessarily mean that a second movie is not happening.

In fact, director Travis Knight has already expressed his interest in doing a sequel, showing his eagerness to explore the world of Eternia. However, he noted that it would only be possible if audiences wanted it.

“If the world doesn't want them, we won't tell them,” he said.

Alternatively, Amazon MGM theatrical distribution head Kevin Wilson understands that a strong opening is a sign that the overall release strategy is working.

“This opening is exactly the kind of critical first moment that validates our holistic distribution strategy,” he told Variety.

But he also noted the importance of long-term engagement after the film’s theatrical run. This suggests that a movie needs more than just box office success to earn a sequel.

Once Masters of the Universe premieres on Amazon Prime Video, it may serve as a major release that elevates both the streaming service and the film’s fame.

Engagement via its streaming platform could be beneficial for Amazon, which also distributed the film, and may play a key role in greenlighting a sequel.

While the film works as a standalone story, its post-credits scene teases a continuation, leaving room for a potential sequel.

However, as nothing is confirmed yet, fans will have to wait to see whether Amazon gives it a go or if they have to wait decades more to see the power of He-Man again on the big screen.

Why Masters of the Universe Flopped?

Masters of the Universe
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Credit: Amazon MGM Studios / Sony Pictures
Masters of the Universe

There are several reasons as to why Masters of the Universe didn’t succeed at the box office.

For one, the film faced strong competition, as the first half of 2026 was filled with high-profile releases such as the return of Scary Movie and Steven Spielberg’s Disclosure Day, alongside unexpected hits like Obsession and Backrooms.

There are also earlier releases that are still in theaters, such as The Mandalorian & Grogu. It should also be noted that the film received mixed reviews, which may have influenced moviegoers’ decisions.

By the looks of it, audiences have been more receptive to the film, with an 87% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. However, critics gave it a lower 67% score, suggesting a more divided reception.

Viewers who are not familiar with the franchise or He-Man itself, or who may have missed the trailers, may not have been drawn to the film. It is also possible that some who watched it were not impressed after seeing only a brief glimpse of what was in store for it. 

In addition, a portion of the audience may have been waiting for it to arrive on Amazon Prime Video, knowing it would eventually stream in the coming months, reducing the urgency to watch it in theaters.

That said, audiences will have to see how Masters of the Universe performs when it arrives on Prime Video.

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