Season Review: Masters of the Universe: Revelation Part Two

 

 

Part one of Masters of the Universe: Revelation impressed fans and critics alike during its summer release. More than a reimagining, the new series incorporated the lore of the original 1983 action/adventure cartoon with modern and mature tones. The new MOTU: Revelation took the loose, messy structure of the children’s show and added depth by exploring the mythology of Eternia.

The first episode of this new series set the tone for higher stakes after killing off the franchises two most recognizable characters, He-Man and Grey Skeletor. Exploring this world without its hero gave the audience a chance to re-establish themselves in this fantasy universe, primarily through the eyes of our guides Teela (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and Guardian of Grey Skull newcomer Andra (Tiffany Smith).

However, the five episodes of Masters of the Universe: Revelation Part One was just the precursor, bringing us back into the fantastic world of Eternia. That first collection ended with a bang. He-Man (Chris Wood) and his archnemesis back from the dead, only to conclude with Skeletor (Mark Hamill) summoning the power of Grey Skull for himself. Needless to say, the cliffhanger made the wait for Revelation Part Two all the more painful.

Thankfully, the new season kicks off with as much power as Grey Skull itself. The first episode of Part Two shows off what Skeletor can do with the sword he has chased his entire life. Equally, the episode chronicles what happens when Prince Adam summons the power without the sword as a conduit. The monumental events are a significant pay-off for long-time fans of the MOTU franchise.

However, once again, Masters of the Universe: Revelation is not about its two most iconic characters. Much as Part One is a story about Teela stepping up in place of an absent He-Man, Part Two is a story about Skeletor’s partner, Evil-Lyn.

This updated version of the beloved childhood cartoon is not about the same old played out battle between He-Man and Skeletor. In fact, the story faces that one-note storytelling head-on by showcasing Skeletor’s lack of vision when gifted the power of the universe. And it is the character closest to the ultimate villain who capitalizes on his misdirection.

Evil-Lyn, the actual bad guy of this new adventure, is far more dangerous with the Sword of Power than Skeletor could have ever been. A fact that she showcases when destroying Preternia and with it a planet’s spirituality. And worst of all, Evil-Lyn is about to become even more potent. A ticking clock will put Eternia at the centre of the universe, granting her the chance to hone the power of the universe.

Masters of the Universe: Revelation Part Two is more than an action/adventure; the five-episode storyline can only be described as a fantasy epic. The entire universe is put in peril. The only way to prevent the end is a battle like never before seen on Eternia. The Guardians of Grey Skull will not be enough to stop Evil-Lyn on their own, and they must summon every capable being across the planet. Included in this ultimate army are plenty of unlikely allies, the most unexpected of all being Skeletor.

However, it’s doubtful you need another reminder of who this story is about. He-Man and all of Eternia are no match for an all-powerful Evil-Lyn. Only one person in all Eternia stands a chance to stop the evil god, the Sorceress of Grey Skull. The only problem is the original magic woman has already sacrificed herself. Now, Teela will have to face herself and her history if she hopes to step up to the powerful mantle.

This grand epic is far more extensive than anything Masters of the Universe has released before. The stakes are universal, with a healthy inclusion of fan service and pay-off. From here, the story seems complete. However, don’t be surprised if this series gets picked up to explore the lore of Eternia even further. This collection of ten episodes thus far has proven that there is far more left to the Masters of the Universe to explore. And the stories have only gotten better with time and maturity.