30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #14

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #14
He-Man lifts Castle Grayskull!
"The Taking of Grayskull"



He-Man, Battle Cat, Teela, and Ram Man find themselves fighting severe weather disturbances. The Heroic Warriors manage to prevent many disasters from occurring, but strange things begin to happen; one of which being the disappearance of He-Man's Sword of Power. The heroes soon discover that Castle Grayskull has vanished, and that the strange occurrences are a side effect. Man-At-Arms deduces that Skeletor has managed to create a white hole and transported Castle Grayskull into another dimension. Eventually He-Man, Battle Cat, and Teela trek through to the other dimension and locate the castle. Working together He-Man and the Sorceress manage to capture Skeletor. Whilst the Sorceress attempts to hold Skeletor inside the castle, He-Man ventures outside...

The Sorceress warns He-Man that she can only hold Skeletor for a short amount of time. The most powerful man in the universe hastily runs underneath the alien structure upon which Castle Grayskull stands. Using his bare fists the most powerful man in the universe creates an area in which he can gain a position directly underneath the castle. Using all of his strength He-Man begins to lift the castle, but it is a struggle. He-Man pleads, "Help me, Sorceress. Give me the strength of the Castle's secrets!" A vision of the Sorceress answers, "Yes, He-Man. I hear you and I am trying..." As thunder and lighting rage around Castle Grayskull the Sorceress commands, "May you have all of the powers, all the strength, that dwell in the secrets of truth and knowledge." With a final burst of strength He-Man declares with great strain in his voice, "I--I can do it!!" Managing to stand upright He-Man succeeds in lifting the castle above his head. He-Man throws the castle high into the alien skies where it soars through a dimensional gate and returns to Eternia.

While I have personally never been a fan of this episode, I can appreciate why so many people enjoy it. However, this scene in which He-Man performs a phenomenal feat of strength is not only the best part of the episode, but also one of the best remembered scenes from the series! When watching this scene it is impossible not to get caught up in the excitement, as He-Man, the Sorceress, and Castle Grayskull are all involved! This is one of those moments that continues to be remembered by those that vaguely recall the events of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. It is a classic scene that will outlive the show itself.

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #15

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #15
Orko saves the lives of Prince Adam and Cringer.
"Creatures From The Tar Swamp"



Lady Edwina, Prince Adam's beautiful, rich, and spoilt cousin arrives at the Royal Palace on a visit. Orko is captivated by her beauty, and decides to impress her with his magical abilities, though he seems completely unaware of her selfishness. Orko fails to impress Lady Edwina with a gift and begins to feel sad, remarking that he has very little importance. In an effort to cheer up Orko Prince Adam decides to inform Lady Edwina just how brave Orko is and begins to recount the time that Orko once saved his life with his magic medallion...

Prince Adam explains that during the Season of Storms he and Cringer had wandered far from the Royal Palace, only to find themselves lost in the Tar Swamps. As Prince Adam attempted to reassure Cringer that they were in no danger, the incredible power of the storm opened a temporary rift between dimensions, and Orko appeared on Eternia for the first time. Although stranded on Eternia Orko immediately rushed to aid Prince Adam and Cringer who were now beginning to sink into the tar! Orko produced his magic medallion and uttered an incantation, "Oh magic medallion hear my command, and give these two a helping hand!" At that moment a nearby tree's branches reached over and plucked the stranded pair out of the tar, transporting them to safety. A victorious Orko, acknowledging that he had saved the day, casually floated backwards spinning his medallion, only to crash into a protruding rock structure, and subsequently drop the medallion into the tar. Adam continues to reveal that after this event, the Royal Family adopted Orko, and made him a member of the royal court.

No list would be complete without this scene. While it may not feature incredible writing, or an amazing action sequence, it is by far one of the single most important events in the rich history of Eternia. For it is the day that Orko saved the individual that would grow up to wield the power of Castle Grayskull! Numerous writers on He-Man and the Masters of the Universe would write Orko as the comedic relief, when in truth the character could be portrayed as one of the most important individuals in the series, without needing to sacrifice his dignity for laughs.

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #16

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #16
Prince Adam lovingly embraces Cringer.
"Battlecat"



After Orko nearly destroys the laboratory whilst disobediently working with chemicals, Man-At-Arms decides to recount a cautionary tale, beginning with how a young Prince Adam first found Cringer. Man-At-Arms explains that many years ago on a nature expedition, Adam discovered Cringer, hurt and abandoned by his mother, being threatened by a sabrecat. Prince Adam took the terrified young kitten back to the Royal Palace where he was nursed back to health. During this time the Sorceress appeared to the young Prince Adam and told him that Cringer would be very important to him someday. Many years later when Adam and Teela accidentally awoke an ancient beast known as the Gedge, the cowardly cat was transformed into Battle Cat by the Sword of Power. Working together He-Man and Battle Cat managed to save the day...

Back in the present day Man-At-Arms summarizes his cautionary tale by saying to Orko that if Adam and Teela had listened to his warning the Gedge would never have been freed. Cringer, who has been silent throughout the story, responds, "And I would never have become that awful Battle Cat." Prince Adam looks down to his cowardly cat. "I'm glad you did, old buddy", Adam says, before affectionately adding, "Without Battle Cat, He-Man would be a lonely fella." Cringer realizing the affection and truth behind the comment replies, "Oh, gosh. I guess I'm stuck with it." Prince Adam then kneels next to his cat and the pair hug, affectionately glancing at one another.

Throughout this episode it is clear how much Prince Adam and Cringer care for one another, and that their friendship is probably one of the most endearing of the series. The end scene is not only the culmination of a story in which we see how a young boy and his cat grow up together, but it also feels incredibly natural, with the wonderfully-written dialogue between the two characters cementing their companionship. When the two embrace we are reminded just how important a character Cringer is, with Adam ensuring that his cowardly cat knows just how much his love and friendship are valued.

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #17

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #17
Queen Marlena is revealed as the mysterious pilot.
"The Rainbow Warrior"



At the Royal Palace the citizens of Eternia enjoy a joust tournament. During the competition, in which the warriors pilot Sky Sleds, Teela is outmaneuvered by another combatant. When Queen Marlena offers her a possible counter-maneuver, a headstrong Teela simply brushes her comment aside. Sometime later, inside the royal museum, Queen Marlena reflectively studies the Rainbow Explorer, the ship that brought her to Eternia. King Randor, Prince Adam, Teela, Man-At-Arms, and Orko are captured by Skeletor whilst enjoying a beach picnic. When Queen Marlena hears of this news she informs the Lieutenant of the Royal Guard to ready the entire fleet. A mysterious pilot in the Rainbow Explorer and the entire Royal Guard launch an attack on Snake Mountain, much to Skeletor's surprise! The pilot of the Rainbow Explorer outmaneuvers and skillfully destroys much of Skeletor's fleet. With Skeletor defeated the Rainbow Explorer lands, and the mysterious pilot emerges from the ship...

As the pilot of the Rainbow Explorer walks towards the gathered heroes, Teela is the first to congratulate the masked individual, "You're the best pilot I've ever seen!" Teela has a big smile on her face, clearly in awe of the mysterious pilot that has entered (and saved) their lives. King Randor steps forward and stands beside the suited figure, knowingly stating, "My friends -- it gives me great pleasure to introduce you to the best pilot that a planet called Earth ever produced --" As the gloved hands remove the helmet, King Randor clearly knows the identity of the pilot. "Marlena -- my Queen!" announces King Randor, as Queen Marlena is revealed. The gathered heroes all react in utter shock, with a wide-eyed Teela gasping, "Your Majesty!" He-Man is so taken aback by the revelation that he nearly calls out "mother", before correcting himself, "Uh...Your Majesty!" Teela eagerly asks, "Will you teach me to fly like that?" Queen Marlena calmly replies, "Yes, Teela. Tomorrow." And with that the fleet of the Royal Guard in formation fly overhead.

Queen Marlena was an incredibly underused character in the series, and at times would simply be a background cast member with very little dialogue. Although she has a few moments in certain episodes in which her personality shines, this episode, and specifically this scene, is one of her finest. The way in which the others react to the moment her identity is revealed is a true victory for those that support the character. She proves to the others that she is more than simply the Queen of Eternia that sits upon the throne. For in this moment, on this day, we see the character recognized and respected as the savior of Eternia, its citizens, and all of her closest family and friends.

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #18

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #18
He-Man reveals that he is blind, thus ending the first act.
"Not so Blind"



Having spoken to a group of children about He-Man, Prince Adam meets Loos, a young blind boy. Loos reveals that he has always wanted to meet He-Man, having heard many stories about the most powerful man in the universe from the storyteller. With this in mind Prince Adam decides to have Loos accompany He-Man on an adventure. A short while later in the hangar of the Royal Palace, Loos meets Ram Man, who takes great delight in hearing from Loos that he is often talked about. He-Man introduces himself to the excited Loos, and proceeds to tell him that they are going on a journey to find the Singing Crystals; and that Loos will be the only boy in Eternia to have touched them. Along the way Loos' heightened other senses are showcased, revealing how he can effortlessly walk to and from any location despite being blind. He-Man, Ram Man, and Loos soon arrive at the Crystal Caves and locate the Singing Crystals. Loos delights in their music, touching the beautiful stalagmites. However, Loos can hear something that the other two cannot...

As the Singing Crystals continue to output a cacophony of beautifully harmonic sounds, Loos' heightened senses pick up on a specific noise. "Do you hear a cracking sound?", asks Loos. Ram Man answers that he doesn't, with He-Man musing that it may have been an echo. Loos hears the sound again, commenting on it once more. This time He-Man looks up and sees a stalactite precariously positioned above all three of them beginning to crack. He-Man grabs Loos and pulls him away, as Ram Man also leaps for safety. The stalactite breaks off and strikes the ground creating an intensely bright flash. Recovering from the experience Ram Man opens his eyes revealing that his pupils have been burned away. A clearly confused Ram Man asks "Hey! Who turned out the lights?" Ram Man begins to panic when he realizes the awful truth, "That flash! It blinded me! I can't see a thing!" He then announces with great terror, "I'm - I'm blind!" Loos, upset by Ram Man's loss of sight, turns to He-Man. Even though the child is blind he senses that something is wrong with the most powerful man in the universe, who is oddly silent. "He-Man, you're all right, aren't you?" When He-Man doesn't answer, a frightened Loos presses his hand against He-Man's chest, pleading for an answer, "He-Man, what's wrong?" He-Man opens his eyes, and much like Ram Man, his pupils have also been burned away. He-Man quietly answers, "Loos, I'm afraid I'm blind, too." And with that chilling revelation, act one comes to an end.

There are many fantastic pieces of writing in this season two episode. However, this dramatic end to the first act of the episode is by far one of the episode's most memorable moments. Cliffhangers are supposed to prevent the audience from changing channel. This cliffhanger not only succeeds in keeping the audience glued to their screens, but also has our minds racing with many questions. Here we have a situation in which the lead character is now blind, along with his allies, in a location they are all unfamiliar with. How will they get home? Will He-Man and Ram Man ever get their sight back? The voice acting from John Erwin as both He-Man and Ram Man, and Erika Scheimer as Loos, is near-perfect. The animation direction also wonderfully gives us expressions appropriate for each piece of dialogue. When the characters look frightened, they really do look frightened! There is a real sense of overwhelming dread when, after a dramatic pause, He-Man reveals that he too is blind. The eerily strange music must be taken into consideration, as it too creates a disheartening atmosphere and a sense of loneliness. As endings to the first act of an episode go, this is one of the best.

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #19

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #19
He-Man's moral lesson is laced with reality.
"Double Edged Sword"



At the Royal Palace, Man-At-Arms explains to King Randor and Prince Adam that their only piece of Eternium, which has powered the palace for centuries, is almost used up. In the Sands of Time, a young boy named Chad, his energetic pet Burbie, and his paralyzed grandfather Elden, locate a piece of Eternium. At Snake Mountain, Mer-Man and Trap Jaw witness the Eternium moving across the Sands of Time towards the Royal Palace. When Trap Jaw eats some Eternium he becomes super-powered, and battles He-Man to a standstill. However, when his power wears off Burbie grabs the Eternium, accidentally swallows it, and slowly begins to die. At Castle Grayskull He-Man steps into the Chamber of Life with Burbie. Outside the castle Elden decides it is time to tell Chad the story of how he became paralyzed. He reveals that during the Orc War, when he was a young soldier, he spotted a group of Orcs and with his fancy shooting skills was able to drive them away. Unwittingly, his fancy shooting loosened a nearby cliff; the resulting avalanche killing many of his men and paralyzing him. Chad learns the true dangers of war, as He-Man emerges from the castle with Burbie, back to full health. The moral of the episode begins...

He-Man turns to the audience announcing, "Sometimes movies and television adventure series like this one make it seem as though shooting a gun, fighting, and taking chances are fun and exciting things to do." The most powerful man continues, "And what's more, the good guys never get hurt." As we see the events of Elden's tragic flashback take place He-Man reveals, "But in real life, people do get hurt, even killed, when they fight or use guns." He-Man assures the audience, "Make-believe can be fun, and there's nothing wrong with imagining great adventures." He finishes the lesson with an incredibly stern warning, "But never forget, that when it's the real thing, someone can get hurt. Even the good guys! Even you."

This moral segment is quite possibly one of the best of the series. Firstly, the lesson it explicitly preaches has already been naturally woven into the episode through Chad and Elden, without any of it feeling forced. Because of this the moral is as good as the entire episode that precedes it! Not only is it an incredibly informative moral, but it also addresses the critics of the show that believed He-Man and the Masters of the Universe was nothing more than a toy-driven exercise in violence! The fact that He-Man brutally admits to the audience that his world is complete fantasy is startling, given that we have invested so much into these fantasy adventures. Rarely has a character ever broken the fourth wall in such a dramatic fashion.

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #20

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #20
Granamyr reveals a twist in the tale.
"The Dragon's Gift"



Skeletor, having snuck into the Royal Palace disguised as a nobleman, attempts to use the mysterious power of the Weird of Crystal on King Randor. However, Man-At-Arms intervenes, and the crystal turns him into a stone statue. He-Man, Battle Cat, and Teela journey to Castle Grayskull hoping that the Sorceress can reverse the cruel spell. She claims that Granamyr, the oldest and wisest of the dragons of Darksmoke may know, but that she cannot reveal the location of Darksmoke. After a great deal of research the heroes head for the Ice Mountains. Finally reaching Darksmoke He-Man, Battle Cat, and Teela enter the huge treasure-filled dome. Granamyr informs the heroes of his less-than-pleasant past experiences with humans. He states that he will restore Man-At-Arms in exchange for a gift. He commands He-Man to cut down Skytree so he can watch it burn in his firepit. Upon locating Skytree in the Forgotten Forest the heroes are shocked to learn that the large towering tree is a living being. Having been saved by an ancestor of Man-At-Arms Skytree agrees to be chopped down in exchange for the life of Man-At-Arms. He-Man cannot bring himself to do it, and with the agreement of a heartbroken Teela, they travel back to Granamry empty-handed...

He-Man, Battle Cat, and Teela appear once more within Granamyr's lair. The great dragon immediately asks, "Where is my gift?" He-Man simply informs Granamyr that they don't have it in their possession. Granamyr reminds He-Man, "But you agreed!" He-Man takes this opportunity to explain himself and his moral standards to the dragon, "Skytree, in fact any tree, has as much right to life as you or me or Man-At-Arms." The most powerful man in the universe simply adds a hard-hitting statement, "We will not take a life to save a life." As an angry Granamyr looks on, He-Man doesn't hide from their original agreement, "Pick another gift or send us to the Realm of Demons now." An inquiring Granamyr asks, "It would be my right to do so, wouldn't it?" He-Man wholeheartedly agrees. The great dragon then leans towards the heroes stating, "Wisdom, compassion and the honoring of a bargain. Who would have thought humankind could have improved so much in a thousand years?" Granamyr returns to his upright position announcing, "I accept this gift, He-Man." And with that the dragon gestures his mighty hand, and a book appears to Teela, in which the spell that will cure Man-At-Arms is contained. Teela thanks Granamyr, but he leans down and replies, "You can thank me best by letting me sleep. And never bothering me again!" And with that, Granamyr returns to sleep in his firepit.

This scene features not only a beautiful exchange of dialogue between Granamyr and He-Man, but more importantly features one of the all-time great plot twists. When He-Man, Battle Cat, and Teela return without Skytree, we are aware that (because of the nature of this animated series) this isn't the end of our heroes. But the turn on Granamyr's part is completely unexpected. Larry DiTillio writes Granamyr as such a powerfully determined character that none of us dare suspect that the gift the great dragon has in mind is in fact a test of He-Man's moral standards. The lesson about the value of life is written perfectly, as is the moment when Granamyr accepts the gift. The scene also once more justifies He-Man as the most appropriate individual to wield the power of Castle Grayskull.

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #21

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #21
Skeletor reluctantly aids He-Man in order to save Eternia.
"Evilseed"



When large vines begin overrunning the planet, both the heroes and villains of Eternia find themselves in a dangerous situation. From their bases of operation He-Man and Skeletor are mystified by the events, and watch as their respective allies are captured by the vines. After being rescued by the Sorceress, He-Man decides to contact Skeletor, presuming that it is he that is in control of the vines. Just as Skeletor denies all knowledge of the attacks their communication is interrupted by a being known as Evilseed. He claims that the vines are his doing, and reveals the captured allies of He-Man and Skeletor bound to an oversized vine. He-Man, the Sorceress, and Orko realize that the only way to stop Evilseed is to make it snow. After much resistance Skeletor agrees to aid the heroes, as He-Man journeys to the Ice Mountains in an effort to procure a large chunk of ice. With an impressive show of strength He-Man manages to throw the ice into the skies of Eternia and in the direction of Castle Grayskull...

He-Man returns to Castle Grayskull and is immediately called into action; saving Skeletor from a vine that has him bound. Sat on the floor, a slightly humiliated and frustrated Skeletor asks He-Man, "Don't you get awfully tired of being a hero all the time?" As He-Man smiles back at his foe, Orko alerts everyone gathered that the large block of ice is closing in towards Castle Grayskull. He-Man, Skeletor, the Sorceress, and Orko head to one of the two towers. As they ascend the tower Skeletor comically asks the most powerful man in the universe, "Don't you ever feel like doing something evil?" He-Man, now atop the turret, responds, "Don't you ever feel like doing something good?" The large block of ice comes into view and all concerned realize that they must act fast. He-Man draws his Sword of Power, and alongside the Sorceress, and Orko, they fire at the ice. However, the ice fails to explode, and Skeletor merely observes the events taking place. Looking out of the corner of her eye the Sorceress pleads, "We need more power." He-Man with the sword still raised turns to Skeletor commanding him to raise his Havoc Staff. Skeletor's voice is incredibly unsure as he replies, "I don't know..." He-Man moves closer to his foe, reminding him, "If you don't, everything will be destroyed!" Skeletor is clearly torn over the decision to help the heroes, and looks down helplessly towards his Havoc Staff. At the very last second Skeletor raises his Havoc Staff. All four individuals fire at the large block of ice, and it explodes, beginning a heavy flurry of snow, and the end of Evilseed's threat!

Firstly, it has to be said that with this episode Barney Cohen wrote one of the best characterizations of Skeletor that the series ever saw. He is both comedic and evil, without being over the top. Throughout the episode we see the way in which Skeletor operates, opportunistically waiting for his moment to strike! This scene in which Skeletor really struggles to aid the heroes is the culmination of the Skeletor-related character events that have taken place during the episode. The dialogue between He-Man and Skeletor is perfect. Surprisingly, the way in which this final scene is written almost makes us feel sorry for Skeletor, because we see that for him, aiding the heroes is a truly harrowing experience! The image of He-Man, Skeletor, the Sorceress, and Orko all firing their blasts into the sky is one of the most iconic images of the series. The story of good and evil having to team up is nothing new in storytelling. But this scene showcases that this episode does it better than most!

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #22

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #22
Castle Grayskull is overthrown by the Evil Lord of Destruction!
"The Dragon Invasion"



In the area known as Dragonmount, Skeletor and Beast Man succeed in stealing the Mother Dragon's eggs. The villains subsequently relocate the individual eggs, fused with Skeletor's growth serum, across the planet of Eternia. Those at the Royal Palace are surprised to see an oversized dragon egg show up in the palace grounds. The gathered few are shocked when the baby dragon emerges and quickly grows into a furiously angry adult dragon! He-Man and his friends manage to stop the dragon from destroying the palace and soon discover that many locations across Eternia have also fallen victim to dragon attacks. The group of heroes decide to split up in an attempt to help those in need throughout the various locations. With the heroes distracted, Skeletor and his Evil Warriors step through a magical gateway inside the confines of Snake Mountain, and emerge outside of Castle Grayskull...

As the magical gateway fades away Skeletor and his Evil Warriors find themselves on the bone bridge that leads up to Castle Grayskull. Skeletor declares, "Our new home...Castle Grayskull!" Evil-Lyn is quick to point out that they won't be able to enter, given that each time they have tried both He-Man and the Sorceress have thwarted their attempts. As he gazes towards the mystical sphere, Skeletor rebukes that not even the Sorceress can resist the power of the Dragonpearl. He then turns to Castle Grayskull, raises his Havoc Staff to the heavens, and screams, "Sorceress! I will control Castle Grayskull!" before issuing a challenge, "Stop me, if you dare!!" The Sorceress appears within one of the castle's turret windows almost confused by Skeletor's actions. Skeletor orders Evil-Lyn to focus her magic on the Dragonpearl, as it will dramatically increase her abilities. Evil-Lyn unleashes a continuous blast of energy that shoots into the mystical sphere, and emerges from the other side greatly increased. The Sorceress attempts to stop the blast, but is overcome by the magic, and pulled into the Dragonpearl itself! Skeletor proceeds to enter Castle Grayskull, shortly after He-Man receives a telepathic distress call from the Sorceress. Inside the castle Skeletor gleefully observes his conquest, "At last...Castle Grayskull and all its secrets are mine." Utilizing the Dragonpearl once more Skeletor creates a force field around it. He-Man and his friends race to the castle only to realize that they are too late. A fallen He-Man questions, "What in Eternia is going on?" The grim visage of Skeletor appears over the face of Castle Grayskull as he proudly informs his ever-present enemy, "Grayskull has fallen, He-Man - To me!" The villain continues, "The Sorceress is my prisoner - and with her power added to the Dragonpearl, all of Eternia will be mine!" He-Man and his friends are helpless, as Skeletor laughs maniacally.

"The Dragon Invasion" is one of the all-time best action/adventure episodes of the series. There is no deep character-driven writing, as the episode has absolutely no need for it. In one of Skeletor's best laid plans we see him steal the Mother Dragon's eggs, distract He-Man and his allies, defeat the Sorceress with the aid of the Dragonpearl, and succeed in conquering Castle Grayskull. Very few of his future plans would ever be as perfect as this one! The way in which this specific scene ends is incredibly memorable, with a fallen He-Man looking upwards towards the eerie image of Skeletor's laughing skull over Castle Grayskull!

30 YEARS - Top 30 GREATEST MOMENTS #23

On the 5th of September 1983 the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe received its WORLD premiere in the UK! To celebrate 30 YEARS since this historic day I am counting down (on a daily basis) what I believe to be the 30 GREATEST MOMENTS of the Filmation series.

GREATEST MOMENT #23
He-Man is tempted by the Starseed to do evil.
"The Search"



Having received a worrying visit from Zodac, the Sorceress reveals to He-Man that Skeletor is currently in pursuit of the Starseed; the most powerful artifact on the planet of Eternia, comprised from the energy of the explosion that created the universe! She explains that the Starseed can do anything that its possessor wishes. He-Man, Battle Cat, and Orko leave Castle Grayskull and race after Skeletor. The heroes fail to stop Skeletor the first time and wind up trapped the other side of a cave-in. The second confrontation ends with Orko being taken hostage by Skeletor, prompting He-Man to work alongside his enemy in order to progress towards the Crystal Cave in which the Starseed is located. Reaching their destination the forces of good and evil find their path blocked by large crystal demons. Working together He-Man and Skeletor manage to defeat them, but as He-Man battles with Beast Man and Mer-Man Skeletor makes a dash for the Starseed. Believing he has obtained the Starseed Skeletor attempts to use it on He-Man, not realizing that Orko has replaced it with a fake. He-Man stands before Skeletor with the Starseed in hand...

He-Man's tone of voice has already changed as he informs his erstwhile foe, "You know better than to oppose me now, Skeletor. I hold the power of the Starseed." His expression begins to alter as he brings the Starseed closer to his face, "The universe could be rid of your evil!" He-Man's eyes widen as he realizes the true power he wields, "I could rid the entire universe of evil. Nothing could stop me!" He-Man's drastic character transformation continues, "No one would dare oppose my will. Whatever I want, I could have." Skeletor begins to suspect a change in the personality of the most powerful man in the universe exclaiming, "We're not so far apart, are we He-Man?" He-Man admits to Skeletor that he can understand why the villain wanted to possess the Starseed, with his voice now straining, "The feeling of power is very strong." Orko is shocked at the shift in personality of his ally. Skeletor delights in the situation informing He-Man, "You're becoming evil, He-Man - I can sense it!" The villain then makes a bold proposal, "Join forces with me! Together we will rule!" Just as He-Man questions the idea in his mind, the Sorceress appears to him, as he recalls their earlier conversation, "The Starseed will tempt you to do evil! You must fight it!" He-Man begins to come to his senses, realizing that his mind is becoming warped by the Starseed's power. He-Man then turns to Skeletor and threatens, "I could use this to stop you, Skeletor!" The villain cowers, before He-Man announces "But if I use this power against you - then I'm no better then you are!" He-Man, Battle Cat, and Orko watch as Skeletor hastily retreats.

"The Search" spends much of the episode focusing on the heroes chasing the villains towards the Starseed. However, this scene in which He-Man is tempted to do evil really does come out of nowhere! It makes for a refreshing change to see the most powerful man in the universe challenged (and nearly defeated) in an incredibly unique way. It is not He-Man's physical strength that is tested in this episode, rather it is his strength of character and heart. The scene is given even greater depth when we learn that the Starseed was Zodac's test of He-Man's virtue, revealing that this story truly was about the man that wields the power of Castle Grayskull.