After more than a decade of development limbo, false starts and shifting studios, the long-awaited Masters of the Universe film is finally gathering serious momentum. And now the project has gained an unexpected but undeniably fitting addition: Queen guitarist Brian May.
The legendary musician recently revealed he is contributing to the soundtrack for the new He-Man movie, sharing the news with fans in the most appropriate way imaginable, by quoting the franchise’s most iconic line.
“I have the POWER!!!!,” May wrote on Instagram, leaning fully into the theatrical spirit of the character.
The guitarist went on to describe working on the film alongside director Travis Knight, composer Daniel Pemberton and sound engineer Sam Okell, even posting a photo that included a nostalgic collection of vintage He-Man toys.
“Great joy to work tonight on scrumptious brand new HE-MAN movie with (L-R) Director Travis Knight, Composer Daniel Pemberton, and chief sound man Sam Okell - pictured here with our family's (actually Jimmy's) vintage He-Man action figure collection from ... oooh, about 1986, I guess. What fun! And this movie will make a lot of people smile a lot !!! And - yes - my ol' Red Special is all over it!!! Watch out!!!”
That final detail will likely excite both Queen fans and longtime followers of the franchise. May’s iconic Red Special guitar has helped define some of rock music’s most recognisable sounds, and its presence suggests the film’s score could lean into something grand and cinematic.
Which, given the scale of the story, feels entirely appropriate.
The film itself has had an unusually long journey to reach the screen. The project was originally announced back in 2009 under Sony Pictures, but since then it has endured numerous script rewrites, several director changes, and a revolving door of casting rumours.
At one point Netflix acquired the rights in early 2022, only to abandon the production about eighteen months later after reportedly spending around $30 million developing it.
Eventually Amazon MGM stepped in during 2023 to revive the film and push it toward completion.
The current cast includes English actor Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Adam, who transforms into He-Man, while Jared Leto will portray the skull-faced villain Skeletor. Idris Elba joins the cast as Duncan, also known as Man-at-Arms, with Camila Mendes playing Teela.
According to the film’s synopsis, the story begins with Prince Adam separated from his home world of Eternia for 15 years. When the mystical Sword of Power finally guides him back, he finds the planet devastated under Skeletor’s rule. To save his family and his kingdom, Adam must unite with his allies and embrace his destiny as He-Man.
Rumours have also circulated among fans that test screenings included Queen music, including their Highlander anthem Princes of the Universe, though that has not been officially confirmed.
What is certain, however, is that Brian May’s involvement adds another layer of rock-and-roll spectacle to a project that already carries decades of nostalgic anticipation.
After years of waiting, the film is finally scheduled for release on June 5 in the United States.
And if May’s enthusiasm is anything to go by, Eternia might be getting a soundtrack worthy of its most powerful hero.
