After a short stop at Netflix, it looks like Amazon MGM Studios is getting the rights to Masters of the Universe. The deal in place should bring the franchise back to movie screens after nearly two decades. Variety reports that Adam and Aaron Nee, the directing team behind The Lost City are frontrunners for the job. Netflix previously had the rights but let them lapse. They spent nearly $30 million in development costs on the project over two years, but couldn’t get it off the ground.
None of this means that Amazon is a sure-thing, but as of this moment, they are the frontrunners. Kyle Allen is in talks to star as He-Man in the project. According to their sources, the producers and Mattel want a large theatrical release for the project. The rights to Masters of the Universe are incredibly complex and filled with different language and triggers based on how the projects work.
After making Barbie and that film’s massive success, Mattel is looking for other properties and IP to possibly strike the big one with. That has led to a resurgence in their toys and interest from movie studios trying to get the licenses as well. The budget for this Masters of the Universe film could top $200 million, which apparently was a sticking point for Netflix.
This is a developing story, we’ll keep you updated as we get more information.
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Source: Variety
