Idris Elba is in final negotiations to help power up the Masters of the Universe film for Amazon MGM Studios. The British actor would play Duncan, also known as Man-at-Arms, in the live-action feature adaptation of the Mattel toy line. He joins Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man, Camila Mendes as Teela, and Alison Brie as Evil Lyn.

In the director’s chair is the founder of indie film studio Laika, Travis Knight, best known for directing Kubo and the Two Strings. The screenplay hails from Chris Butler, following initial drafts by David Callaham, and brothers Aaron and Adam Nee.

Plot details are unconfirmed, but the project centres on the character of Prince Adam of Eternia who, thanks to his Power Sword, can turn into He-Man and be imbued with superhuman strength and abilities. Alongside his allies, he defends his planet from the evil Skeletor and his armies. For Elba, the role of a Man-at-Arms (there were multiple) is to advise the ruling planetary monarch and the Royal Guard on military and police affairs.

Idris Elba will soon be on the big screen, reprising his voice role as Knuckles in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. He’s also known for features such as Pacific Rim, Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw, The Suicide Squad, and Beast, as well as series Luther and Hijack.

Masters of the Universe is due to release in cinemas from June 5th, 2026.