Camila Mendes Explains Why Her Teela Costume Wasn’t Used

As Masters of the Universe prepares for a return to the big screen, one of the most talked-about details has been Teela’s costume. In the Masters of the Universe adaptation, Teela, played by Camila Mendes, will not be wearing a costume as extravagant as in the 80s cartoon. Mendes has now clearly explained the reason behind this design change for the first time.

Why Did Teela Change in Masters of the Universe?

Speaking to Empire magazine, Camila Mendes said she was actually ready to wear a costume faithful to the cartoon. However, the production team thought that a warrior character in a modern live-action film wearing a swimsuit-like outfit would look “too absurd.” Mendes confirms that the decision was made accordingly.

The addition of pants to Teela’s costume in the new design has given the character a more practical and functional look. This change is particularly noticeable among the other large, muscular warriors on Eternia, with comments suggesting it makes more sense. It also seems to be a significant factor in Mendes’ ability to move more freely in physically demanding scenes.

On the other hand, not only the costumes but also the action has been enhanced in the film. According to Empire, a major battle scene between Battle Cat and Beast Man is being prepared on set. The fight between the giant green tiger and the orange-furred enemy will be one of the moments the visual effects team is particularly focusing on.

Directed by Travis Knight, Masters of the Universe will be released on June 5th. Starring Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man and Jared Leto as Skeletor, the film aims to offer a modern update while also embracing nostalgia. The change in Teela’s costume is one of the clearest examples of this approach.

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