The new *Masters of the Universe* film, which has begun its theatrical run in several international locations, is facing a challenging opening weekend at the global box office.

Initial estimates suggest the movie may struggle to achieve $50 million worldwide, with a domestic debut potentially around $30 million.

This projection comes despite the film receiving a 74% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, and an apparent positive reception from fans of the original 1980s cartoon.

However, industry observers suggest that general audience indifference to a big-screen adaptation of a decades-old property, which has not historically commanded the same mass appeal as franchises like *Star Wars*, could be a significant factor in its box office performance.

This financial performance is particularly critical given the film's reported production budget of $175 million, which does not account for marketing and advertising expenses.

Directed by Travis Knight, *Masters of the Universe* brings the legendary franchise back to the big screen.

The story follows Prince Adam, portrayed by Nicholas Galitzine, who returns to Eternia after 15 years to find his home under the tyrannical rule of Skeletor, played by Jared Leto.

To save his family and world, Adam must embrace his destiny as He-Man, the most powerful man in the universe, and unite with allies like Teela (Camila Mendes) and Duncan/Man-At-Arms (Idris Elba).

The film's cast also includes Morena Baccarin as The Sorceress, James Purefoy and Charlotte Riley as King Randor and Queen Marlena, and Alison Brie as Evil-Lyn.

Sam C.

Wilson plays Trap Jaw, Kojo Attah is Tri-Klops, and Kristin Wiig provides the voice of Roboto.

Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, Steve Tisch, and DeVon Franklin are producing the movie.

Looking ahead, the film is expected to face stiff competition, with *Scary Movie* anticipated to take the top spot this weekend with an estimated $40 million, and A24's *Backrooms* projected to secure second place with $32 million to $37 million in its second weekend.

The hope remains that positive word-of-mouth could benefit the PG-13 film in the long run.