Supergirl Review: Supergirl successfully establishes DC’s newest heroine with emotion and depth.
Supergirl review by Kausalya Rachavelpula
Supergirl Review: A Strong Character Study That Successfully Establishes DC’s New Hero
Directed by Craig Gillespie and written by Ana Nogueira, Supergirl (2026) is less interested in delivering a conventional superhero spectacle and more focused on establishing its lead character. It is a film that introduces a completely different kind of hero—one shaped by loss, loneliness and constant searching rather than hope alone.
To understand Supergirl, it is important to understand the world James Gunn has created. His Superman is politically rooted in liberal and leftist ideologies, and those themes naturally continue into this film. There is also an undeniable difference between the traditional Superman audiences have known for decades and James Gunn’s interpretation. Rather than feeling like a continuation of the past, this DC Universe feels like a complete reboot, not only in its storytelling but also in its politics, themes and worldview.
Since Supergirl is introduced through that universe, it makes perfect sense for her story to follow the same direction. More importantly, she is not simply a female version of Superman. She is her own character, and because she is a woman superhero, the story naturally explores themes from a woman’s perspective.
One of the film’s major conflicts revolves around a civilisation made up entirely of men who kidnap women from other planets solely to procreate. Supergirl stands against that system, making the conflict much more than a straightforward battle between hero and villain. The narrative uses this conflict to reinforce the film’s broader ideological themes while giving Supergirl a purpose beyond simply saving the day.
Unlike Superman, Supergirl is written as a deeply sad hero. While Superman reaches Earth as Krypton’s destruction begins, Supergirl remains behind. The attack on Krypton does not destroy the planet instantly. Instead, it gradually destroys the planet’s soil by opening up Kryptonite, leaving Krypton to die slowly. During those years, Supergirl is born, grows up and witnesses her world collapsing before her parents finally send her to Earth. That tragedy becomes the emotional foundation of her character.
The film succeeds because it spends time establishing who Supergirl really is. It explores her sadness, her strengths and her weaknesses without trying to make her appear perfect. The one constant source of comfort in her life is Krypto, whose presence becomes emotionally important throughout her journey.
Milly Alcock is outstanding in the role. She brings an innocence and curiosity that immediately make Supergirl likeable. Whether through her expressions, body language or quiet emotional moments, Alcock gives the character warmth and vulnerability. She never tries to imitate Superman, instead creating a Supergirl with her own identity.
Jason Momoa’s Lobo is another highlight. His sarcastic personality immediately reminded me of Ghatothgachudu. He appears at the right moments, helps the heroes when necessary and brings a sense of fun without taking away from the emotional core of the story. His immortal, carefree nature makes him an entertaining addition to the new DC Universe.
Traditionally, superhero films have often been shaped by misogynistic storytelling, from costume design to the way action sequences are presented. Supergirl deliberately moves away from that formula. Its writing embraces liberal, leftist and feminist ideas as part of its narrative. Writing these ideas on paper is one thing, but translating them into a mainstream superhero film is still relatively new. That shift gives Supergirl a distinct identity within the genre.
Could the film have been better? Absolutely. There are moments where the screenplay could have been tighter and certain scenes could have carried greater emotional impact. However, none of those issues prevent the film from achieving what it sets out to do.
More than anything else, Supergirl successfully establishes its heroine. It gives her a clear emotional journey, believable flaws and meaningful strengths. Just as human beings travel across countries searching for peace, healing or a fresh perspective, Supergirl travels across planets for the same reason. By the end of the film, she feels like a complete character rather than just another superhero waiting for the next adventure, and that is the film’s greatest achievement.
