Starring Milly Alcock as the titular character, DC’s newest superhero movie, Supergirl, is a mixed bag for many reasons. While it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, the film delivers fantastic performances, emotional storytelling, and a fresh direction for the DC Universe. While it’s not a critical success, it’s definitely making waves among fans, who can’t help but be entertained by the lighthearted and spirited young woman trying to find a place to call home. At the heart of Supergirl is a surprisingly tender story about belonging, and that might be what’s tugging at viewers’ heartstrings. And, of course, Krypto!
Starring Milly Alcock, Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, Emily Beecham, David Corenswet, Jason Momoa and others, the film is directed by Craig Gillespie and written by Ana Nogueira.
Is Supergirl Worth Watching?
If You Love Character-Driven Superhero Stories, It’s Worth Watching
DC’s Supergirl movie spends a surprising amount of time exploring Kara Zor-Ei’s emotional journey instead of focusing on spectacle. Adapted from the 2021–22 comic book miniseries Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by Tom King and Bilquis Evely, the film is an exploration of grief, resilience and finding purpose after a devastating loss, even for someone as strong as Kara. While outwardly she has all the strength in the world, the film highlights how she’s still vulnerable and recovering from her past trauma.
With all of its hiccups, the film’s emotional core is its strongest element and one of the reasons to watch it in theatres.
Milly Alcock Makes a Strong First Impression as Kara Zor-El
Alcock is a surprisingly vulnerable and believable Kara Zor-El and one of the reasons the film stands apart from the rest. While the screenplay lacks here and there, the performances are its driving factor and Alcock does a great job of presenting a well-rounded protagonist in front of audiences. While other characters oftentimes present an invincible superhero from the onset, Kara is still processing loss and learning what kind of superhero she is. It’s easy to relate to her character, especially during quieter moments.
As a revival of the DCU, Alcock presents a memorable Kara Zor-El and elevates otherwise ordinary scenes. It presents one of the strongest reasons to watch the film.
Don’t Expect a Traditional Superman-Style Adventure
Surprisingly, even though Clark Kent is there, Supergirl surprisingly strays away from focusing too much on the caped superhero and takes the fight away from Earth to a larger cosmic setting. This fresh environment, complete with alien worlds, unfamiliar civilisations and long distance journeys provide a fresh perspective for the fraanchise where the norm was usually always fighting bad guys trying to destroy Earth.
The shift gives the movie a fresh perspective that gives it a space adventure feel rather than a conventional superhero blockbuster. The pacing also gives quieter moments equal opportunities to shine along with larger action sequences. While differing from the norm is always a slippery slope, it does give this movie something different to explore rather than feeling like a copy-paste of Superman.
The Visuals Make the Cosmic Adventure Feel Fresh
The movie does a great job with its visual presentation as it moves beyond familiar city skylines to expansive alien landscapes inspired by the comic series it is adapted from. With vibrant extraterestrial locations, distinctive costumes and imaginative environments, the movie feels like a brand new advanture that isn’t afraid to try something new. Audiences are transported to a world where things are not just unfamiliar to them, but also to Kara. It’s like discovering something new together, making it a unique experience.
The cinematography and visual effects are equally stunning and create a scale where Kara’s adventure seems worthwhile and a bit daunting as well. The artistic ambition and worldbuilding are truly worth watch and will definitely provide an immersive experience.
The Movie Isn’t Perfect
With all these said and done, Supergirl isn’t perfect. As critics have rightfully pointed out, the screenplay lacks momentum at times and the action sequences lack original choreography. Some of the supporting characters, too, lack depth. In an increasingly overcrowded superhero genre, the movie sometimes lack originality to make it stand out.
So, Is Supergirl Worth Watching?
Supergirl isn’t changing the direction of superhero movies and neither is it trying to reinvent anything. However, the film is a moving watch that focuses on the Kara’s journey to overcome her trauma and difficulty that will leave an impact on viewers. Moreover, it’s a visually stunning watch that brings forth. If you’re looking for a thoughtful origin story with fantastic performances, then this will definitely justify a watch. However, if you’re looking for relentless action and a tightly paced storytelling, then this will definitely leave you disappointed. It’s not a perfect reboot, but it has an intriguing introduction to an iconic hero.
Did you watch Supergirl? Share your thoughts about this new superhero film in the comments below!
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