He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (2002-04)

He-Man and the Masters of the Universe:

The Complete Series (2009)

39 episodes split over 4 discs (26 in S1 + 13 in S2).

Wisely taking into account how badly The New Adventures of He-Man (1990) was received, Mattel tried a second MotU reboot in 2002 with designs that were less of a departure from the original 1983-85 series. Characters and locations were updated but remained instantly recognisable.

The opening title sequence sets the tone perfectly; it references the old series and then cleverly and effortlessly lets you know in no uncertain terms that this version of MotU is new.

The rebuilding of the franchise is mirrored in the gradual rebuilding of King Randor's Kingdom. The threat of Skeletor necessitates that it be fortified and that loyal subjects are recruited to defend it, meaning the core team members return.

Man-at-Arms is his usual dependable self, with a bad-ass moustache that will surely go down in legend. Teela is more combative but still resolutely feminine. Orko is less irritating and occasionally kind of useful. Stratos gets more to do, all the while sounding like the lovechild of Sean Connery and Brian Blessed. The remainder of the team each have a unique talent that the writers play around with to make their inclusion worthwhile, but special mention goes to the Sorceress who is beautifully characterised by her strength and compassion.

He-Man's musculature is slightly less bloated; he's not as much of a top-heavy freak as he was before. Aesthetically he's fine, but there's one major problem with the character: Cam Clarke's voice work. He does okay as He-Man, but as Adam he makes no effort whatsoever. I'm seeing the young Prince but hearing Leonardo the Ninja Turtle. It's the only weak aspect of the show.

I'm happy to report that despite lacking his trademark 'Nyyaaahh' Skeletor is even more awesome and a lot more menacing than his 1980s counterpart. He no longer flees at the first flex of He-Man's chest; he'll stand and fight instead. His frustrations are worked out by punishing his minions, which provides some comedy without compromising his new status.

Not having Evil-Lyn by his side would feel wrong, so she's included. She essentially serves the same purpose as she did before, but is a little more Maleficent with a pinch of Lady Macbeth (she even casts spells in rhyme).

Combat is exciting, with an anime-style visual flair that settles down over time but never falls away completely. There's some attempt to add depth to the animation through shadows that doesn't always work but deserves praise for being tried.

Season One is really great. I loved it. Season Two raises the bar even higher by adding an additional threat that would've been more prominent in Season Three had it not been cancelled before it even began because of floundering toy sales. Curse you, Matty. I want more!