LOS ANGELES – The latest entry in DC’s expanding cinematic universe, Supergirl, delivers a superhero adventure that attempts to blend emotional storytelling with large-scale action, while carefully navigating questions surrounding the iconic heroine’s place alongside her more famous counterpart, Superman.
Directed by Craig Gillespie, known for Cruella, the film arrives under the strong creative influence of producer James Gunn, whose work on Guardians of the Galaxy and last year’s Superman reboot helped shape the current direction of DC’s movie franchise. While Gillespie occupies the director’s chair, many of Gunn’s trademarks remain visible throughout the film, from fast-paced humor and energetic pop-punk elements to eccentric alien encounters and action-heavy set pieces.
At the center of the story is Kara Zor-El, portrayed by Milly Alcock, who delivers a compelling performance as the young Kryptonian. Unlike Superman, Kara is depicted as a figure still struggling with displacement and loss, making her a more conflicted and emotionally volatile protagonist.
The narrative begins with Kara spending her 23rd birthday alone in space, where a solitary celebration is unexpectedly interrupted by Ruthye, a teenage girl played by Eve Ridley. Ruthye seeks assistance in tracking down Krem, a ruthless marauder portrayed by Matthias Schoenaerts, whom she blames for the murder of her family.
Initially unwilling to become involved, Kara eventually changes course when Krem’s actions place her loyal dog, Krypto, in danger. While the rescue of a beloved pet becomes a major motivator in the story, the filmmakers also use the situation to explore deeper themes surrounding grief, identity and belonging.
One of the film’s most effective narrative choices comes through a flashback sequence that reveals how Kara ended up isolated from her home world. Written by Ana Nogueira, the backstory provides additional emotional context for the character and strengthens her reasons for confronting Krem. The sequence also helps distinguish Kara from Superman by emphasizing her lingering sense of loss and alienation rather than optimism about life on Earth.
The film briefly raises a question about the distinction between Superman and Supergirl, asking why one is identified as a man and the other as a girl. Although the issue is never directly addressed, the moment highlights some of the broader themes the movie touches upon without making them its central focus.
Despite its character-driven elements, Supergirl also faces the challenge of satisfying expectations attached to a major studio production reportedly carrying a budget of around $170 million. To broaden its appeal, the film incorporates a revenge-driven journey that recalls elements of Mad Max: Fury Road, creating a larger action framework around Kara’s personal struggles.
That combination, however, is not always seamless. The darker tone of the revenge storyline occasionally clashes with the lighter and more eccentric style associated with Gunn’s approach to superhero filmmaking. Schoenaerts’ portrayal of Krem reflects that inconsistency, with the villain shifting between understated menace and exaggerated theatricality.
Jason Momoa also appears in a supporting role, bringing an energetic and flamboyant presence that leans heavily into the film’s more playful side.
Ultimately, Supergirl stands out for attempting to give its heroine greater emotional complexity than is often seen in the superhero genre. While the film sometimes struggles to balance its contrasting tones, its exploration of loss, identity and resilience gives the character a distinctive voice within DC’s growing cinematic universe. (Jai)
