A follow-up to the fantastic Masters of the Universe: Revelation, Kevin Smith has seemingly shirked off review bombing to return to the Eternal fold with Revolution. A now-mechanised Skeletor (Mark Hamill, in awe-inspiring form) works as a servant to the Motherboard (Meg Foster) and her superior, the all-conquering Hordak (Keith David). It is up to Prince Adam/He-Man (Chris Wood), Teela (Melissa Benoist), and their allies to quell this latest threat.
Much like Revelation, Revolution doesn’t skimp on the thrills. Every episode has stratospheric action in abundance. How the animation keeps everything looking fresh while retaining a slightly jagged, aged feel is a magnificent accomplishment. It brings out the best of its characters in the most stupendous, over-the-top moments, exactly like it should. But the rich colour and design also work in the quieter moments, where the conflicts of being that several characters face feel explored with genuine pathos. Skeletor’s origin is brought to life with a gleeful style and is guaranteed to please both new and seasoned fans.
And yet, compared to Revelation, Revolution doesn’t toy with the established order of things. It is happy to return to the tried-and-tested route of an extended brawl between hero and villain. Combined with some hammy dialogue (sometimes very hammy) which feels out of place even for those giving themselves over to the ridiculousness of it all, Revolution descends into a pleasing but unchallenging narrative. This is admittedly not helped by a very short series length, and while a follow-up is definitely hinted at, Revolution on its own feels like a step down from what Smith is really capable of.
MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE: REVOLUTION is available on Netflix now.
