Don Shanahan
The Cinephile Hissy Fit podcast can sometimes live and die by the differences of “you had to be there.” When it comes to Masters of the Universe, whether it’s the new summer blockbuster or, in this case, 1987’s first big-screen incarnation, the divide applies. If you were into and played with He-Man action figures as a kid, as one host has, you were there for the cheese of Frank Langella’s Skeletor and cartoon come to life, even if it was done badly. If you weren’t into that scene and never watched the movie until now, you’ll find little more than moldy cheese.
For their 235th episode, two film critics, two dads, and two school teachers who definitely have the power, Will Johnson and Don Shanahan, are starting to scratch a sword-and-sandal itch. Semi-included in that subgenre, and just in time for the remake/reboot, is 1987’s Masters of the Universe from Cannon Films. Starring the beloved and out-of-his-element Dolph Lundgren, one of our hosts was absolutely the target audience for this nearly 40 years ago, and the other is watching it for the first time in 2026. Come learn more and stay for the mutual love and respect that fun movies encapsulate. Enjoy our podcast! Enjoy our podcast!
Cinephile Hissy Fit is an Astra Award-losing Film Obsessive media podcast, brought to you by the Ruminations Radio Network, and a member of the Critics Choice Podcast Network. Please visit, rate, review and subscribe. If you enjoyed this show, we have more where that came from, with interesting hosts, and wonderful guests. All are available on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you find your favorite shows. Follow the show on Twitter at @CinephileFit and on Facebook. Also, find both Will Johnson and Don Shanahan on Letterboxd as they accumulate their viewings and build their ranks and lists. Lastly, check out their TeePublic store for merchandise options from stickers to t-shirts!
Thank you so much for your captive audience and social media participation! Enjoy our new podcast episode!
