The latest entry in the new DC Universe, Supergirl, has arrived in theaters, bringing with it a wave of mixed critical reactions that underscore the challenges of launching a new cinematic universe . While the film, directed by Craig Gillespie, has been praised for its ambitious tonal shifts and the standout performance of its lead, it has also faced significant criticism for a perceived lack of originality and an uneven script .
The film serves as the second major live-action installment for DC Studios, following last year's Superman . It introduces audiences to a version of Kara Zor-El far removed from the optimistic heroism of her cousin, Clark Kent. This iteration of the character is portrayed as a jaded, traumatized young woman who has spent years grappling with the destruction of her home planet, Krypton, and the loss of her family . She is presented not as a beacon of hope, but as a damaged individual seeking escape, often through intergalactic benders on planets with red suns that neutralize her powers .
The weight of the film rests heavily on the shoulders of lead actress Milly Alcock. The 26-year-old Australian actor, who rose to fame in House of the Dragon, has been widely recognized as the film's strongest asset . Critics have lauded her ability to balance the character’s punk-rock attitude with a genuine sense of grief and vulnerability . One review notes that Alcock "completely owns the screen, delivering a charismatic, punk rock take on the Last Daughter of Krypton" . Her performance as a messy, reluctant hero has been praised for bringing depth to a character that could have easily been one-note .
The storyline, penned by screenwriter Ana Nogueira, is heavily inspired by the acclaimed comic book miniseries Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by Tom King and Bilquis Evely . The plot kicks into gear when Kara’s beloved canine companion, Krypto, is poisoned by the villain Krem of the Yellow Hills, played by Matthias Schoenaerts . She is forced to team up with a young alien girl, Ruthye, portrayed by Eve Ridley, who is on a quest for revenge against Krem for murdering her family .
While the comic is praised for its emotional depth and moral complexity, critics have noted that the film adaptation struggles to capture the same nuance . One criticism suggests the film "plays like a speed run through... the book" and loses "much of the emotional depth, worldbuilding, and thematic weight that made the comic such a defining storyline for Kara" . The central narrative, which involves a race against time to save Krypto and a mission of vengeance, has been described as thin and overly derivative of classic sci-fi tropes like Mad Max and Star Wars . The action sequences have also drawn criticism for being too dark and hampered by poor computer graphics in some instances .
Adding a jolt of chaotic energy to the proceedings is Jason Momoa, who makes his DC Universe debut as Lobo, a cigar-smoking, motorcycle-riding interstellar bounty hunter . Momoa, known for his roles as Aquaman and Khal Drogo, reportedly lobbied for the part and brings his signature larger-than-life charisma to the screen . His presence is described as a welcome addition that injects "untidy energy" into the film's otherwise generic action .
The film's director, Craig Gillespie, known for his work on I, Tonya and Cruella, has faced questions about the film's generic tone, with some critics finding it a surprising misfire given his previous work . The overall consensus appears to be that while Supergirl is not a complete disaster and is arguably more focused than its predecessor, it suffers from a clichéd story and a desperate attempt to be edgy that results in a "punk crock" . However, despite its flaws, the film has been described as a confident declaration from DC Studios that its heroes will have distinct identities .
With the future of the franchise hinging on its ability to build a sustainable universe, the true test for Supergirl may be its ability to prove that characters beyond the "big three" can carry a blockbuster . While the film is not the home run many hoped for, Alcock's performance may have just earned her audience enough goodwill to see what comes next.
